Steven - Met in Northampton

Heartfelt blessings from the Racecourse – shared from the wonderful, ever smiling, Steven. Even after he ducked through the trees to initially avoid the camera I could sense his radiance. You too now have the gift of his happiness.

Some people always seem to glow – like they’ve been eating Ready Brek all day!

Roy Wykes - Met in Northampton

Are people with animals the friendliest people to talk to? Maybe they are. This man is surely tipping the scales in favour of a ‘yes’ vote.

He smiled from a distance as his dogs (Megs and Annie) ran ahead of him. Roy stopped to share some time and comments about the beauty of the autumnal day. The colours were already bringing joy and light to the afternoon walk, Roy increased that pleasure manifold times.

Tina - Met in Northampton

Smiles abounded in this particular area of the town this morning.

Tina brought the sunshine out from behind the thick layers of clouds. This is not a new skill, Tina has been doing this for years – smiling and supporting Macmillian Cancer Support – World’s Biggest CoffeeMorning, she even had her own cheerleaders singing her praises. What a joyous encounter for a wonderful purpose.

Cavan – met in Northampton

It was the hat that first drew attention. It stood tall and bright. Like the smile that Cavan constantly wore. 

This brightness was perfectly matched by the blond plaits and the vivid tie he sported with flair.

When asked if there was any particular meaning to his name, Cavan burst out in song! The people around were treated to a tune about his name and County Cavan in Ireland. Everybody was smiling.

Just what’s needed on a cold autumn day – bright, breezy people doing their bit for the community and raising money for a worthy cause: Macmillian Cancer Support – World’s Biggest Coffee Morning

Alan – Met in Mereway, Northampton

Alan is outstanding. He also has a striking look. Once seen, never forgotten.

My enquiry about his different colour facial hair was met with an air of polite and calm resignation – I’d correctly assumed that others had also noticed it and commented on it.

Alan explained that he had inherited his particular look through his genes – his grandparents had it, then it skipped a generation and he was gifted with it. It’s called vitiligo  - a condition that results in the loss of pigmentation - and his occurs only on one side of his face. Apparently Michael Jackson had the same condition.

I told him I thought his look was a fashion statement before I spoke to him, he smiled at my suggestion that he dyed his hair on one side of his face. When I asked if I could take his photograph he willingly obliged and remarked that someone else had recently asked him the same question because they knew someone with the same condition.

Fortunately the other man and I were part of a group of sensitive enquirers. Alan remarked that he’s had some negative comments from people because unfortunately we live in a country with lots of sensitive people. All his observations of these other people were kind and courteous.

An outstanding man, in more ways than one, especially in charity to others who have been less than thoughtful to him.

Ieva – Met in Kingsthorpe, Northampton

Style, panache, presence – all these elements and more are evident in Ieva. She stood out against the brick buildings as she was casually and professionally doing kick-ups in the street.

I asked if she was practising for a particular event, Ieva responded, “No, I just like to do it.” She was very good.

After explaining why I was taking photographs Ieva agreed to let me share a touch of her style and skill.

Leyion - Met in Northampton

He stepped out of a building in front of me and I immediately noticed his strong calf muscles. Thinking about the upcoming Olympics I admired his easy, yet determined walk. After passing him I hesitated and went back.

Leyion had just finished working out in the gym something he plans to continue for the next eight years at least – until he’s 60. Yes, that’s right, this young looking man is over 50 (in fact, he’s the same age as me).

Leyion was raised in Northampton but left after gaining his qualifications to find work in the West Country and on the south coast. He is using his return to the county well, he hailed and talked to many people as we ambled along the road together. His strong, yet easy, manner extends to his character as well as his physique.

I think Leyion will be working out for a good few more years to come, at this rate he’ll be doing gym sessions until he’s at least 90.

Tom - met in Northampton

I interrupted Tom as he was minding his own business walking through town. His eye caught my eye.

“Excuse me." I said, "That’s an interesting tattoo.”

“Thank you.”

“Can I take a picture of it, of you as well?”

“Mmm, yes. What’s it for?”

Tom took out his earphones when I’d approached him and after explaining why I was bothering him he willingly let me take a few photographs.

I asked if he had more tattoos than the ones visible.

“Are they all over your body?” I asked.

“I’m getting there,” he responded shyly.

“Don’t worry,” I said, “I’m not going to ask you to look at them all.”

We smiled together at the thought. 

Dave Cox - from Northampton

Did you know you can miss out on the best quality conversations because of preconceived ideas? “You can’t judge a book by its cover.” So the saying goes. It’s true.

Dave was a boxer. You can tell that from his rugged face. What you can’t tell is the warmth of his personality and the extent of his community interest.

There was a time when Dave was the busiest boxer in Britain, now he pursues more gentle occupations like window cleaning and walking his dogs.

Like his Rottweiler and Husky you don’t really know what’s beneath the surface until you approach him (both dogs are also very pleasant).

Dave says he’s not political but he wants to see a change in the political landscape where things are more equal for the everyday workers of the country. With a passionate speech (that sounded very much like an election speech) he pointed out the evident errors in many systems from social care to the deteriorating health system. Dave is a man who has his finger on the pulse and his eye firmly fixed on the shifting landscape.

Looking to the future Dave wants to see more changes that will not rob the children of their rights. He could be right.

As he says, with a cheeky version of his ever-present smile, “Dave Cox for Prime Minister!”

Helen - from Northampton

Helen is a bubble of fun and a fount of knowledge. When she’s not busy educating young people in the pleasures of literature and the English language, she can be found on the winning team in many a pub quiz, experiencing the pleasures of tepee or yurt living or dressing as your favourite juggling bumblebee!

No social setting is complete without a little touch of Helen. She adds sparkle and laughter to all situations. Easily put at ease in her company you may unwittingly become a student at her feet.

  

Although Helen is in her second decade of teaching in the leafy green hamlets of Northamptonshire when she is not in the classroom she does venture far and wide around the country and world visiting new locations, familiar family comforts of Ireland,  national theatres and book shows, seeking adventure in random fields and reading a book or two ... hundred.

Helen has passion about learning English and her input has also been included in curriculum guidelines by the Greek government. Her position within her current establishment as the Learning Leader for English is a good start to knowing more about this soft spoken and truly amazing woman.

Merlin Shah - Met in The Headlands, Northampton

Although from Trinidad Merlin has the magical character that goes with her name from  English medieval legends. Merlin is in the UK using her renown skills as a gardener.

In previous years she has was asked to teach children both basic and advanced life and gardening skills: they seem to go hand-in-hand.

Merlin is currently working in gardens and allotments in the town and she’s evidently having a lot of fun. She said, with a huge grin, “I like myself for what I do.”

How wonderful to be able to live your life and say that each day.

Jim – Met in Weston Favell, Northampton

This is a story.

It’s a story about a man and a dog. And it’s a story about me.

My bit first: the more people I talk to, the more I find out about myself. This is a multi-faceted adventure of meeting and recording the images of people of Northamptonshire. I recommend it to everyone. Try it, you’ll like it ... maybe even love it.

Now Jim’s bit: if you saw Jim on the street you’d stop to talk with him as well, I know you would.

Jim dared me to guess his age. I was wrong (on purpose, but farther away from his real age that I’d have thought.) What do you think his age is? (*It’s at the bottom of this entry.) Maybe his story will give you a clue.

Jim has been in England for over 40 years. Before he moved here from his home in Kilkenny, in the south of Ireland, he had worked on a farm for 14 years. Jim put his long life down to a life of contentment with what he has. He said he’s happy to read, listen to the wireless and sing along to songs. Jim asserted, in a super soft tone, that he’s as healthy as he can be. He walks two miles every day with his dog, Missy, he does his own cooking, washing and other household tasks and he doesn’t take any form of medication.

He spoke with a quiet sense of contentment, enhanced – to my ears – by the sweet, soft Irish lilt to his voice. It was like knowing that uncut diamonds were dropping onto a purple velvet cloth. I was sorry to leave him but I said, “I hope to see you again sometime.” At this Jim smiled and said, “With the help of God and 900 policemen.” We both laughed.

As we parted, Jim looked back at me and raised his voice to an average speaking level, “If not,” he said, “I’ll see you in heaven. You’ll be there, won’t you? With the Big Man ...” His eyes shone with joy and he continued on his way at peace with himself and the world.

As I stood there reflecting I could just hear his quiet calls of “Morning,” as they were echoed by the duplicated word from all passersby as he walked down the nearby jitty.

(*Jim is 85 years young with twinkling eyes and a superb sense of style – I ‘guessed’ early 60s.) 

Alan Gabriel – Met in Kingsley Park, Northampton

This man has a light about him; an air of smart order. This was what I thought even before I knew his name was Gabriel. He told me his name in a Bond like manner, “Gabriel. Alan Gabriel.” His calm assurance in look and poise were matched in his smooth flow of words.

Waiting for his son by a bus stop in Kingsley Park Mr. Gabriel was happy for me to take this photograph. I was initially hesitant to approach but as I dithered our eyes met and I knew immediately that it was OK to speak with him.

A brief but lasting interaction.

I said, “Thank you, sir,” as I returned to my car. It seemed the only fitting way to refer to him.

Marc from Northampton - met in Market Square

The celebrations of the Olympic torch relay were in full swing a few hundred metres away from this man, who was sheltering from another summer’s downpour.

He was with someone I’d met recently, Martin, and after we’d chatted a while I introduced myself to Marc.

Marc has been in Northampton for 8 years and he’s known Martin all that time, “He’s a fantastic bloke,” Marc says amiably.

Marc then told me about himself. He said, “I had two legs up until last year, but I lost one,” he stops and pulls on his cigarette. “DVT,” he continues in a matter-of-fact tone, “from the smoking.” Looking at the cigarette in his ungloved left hand he says, almost wistfully, “I should give it up ... but I don’t.” He then puts it to his lips again and inhales deeply while looking out to somewhere far beyond the raindrops falling in the Market Square.

He tells me where he lives and where he normally is to be found when he is in town. Like with Martin, I know I’ll speak with him again. When you really see people, they always remain visible.

Removing his glove from his right hand Marc shakes my hand, smiles and bids me farewell. He repeat his name again, “Marc, that’s Marc with a C.” “It’s important to get your name right,” I reply. “Thank you.”

When I eventually walk away he sits there with Martin standing at his side. The downpour is relentless.

Nick Elks from Northampton

I think each day I’m become braver and more willing to give voice to my uncertainty about meeting new people. This is probably because of the beautiful responses I have been granted as I walk around town asking complete strangers if I can take their photographs.

Today my curiosity drew me into a newly opened building where some men were evidently deep in discussion. I briefly interrupted them and then, after talking with Nick, I learnt more about the new Hope Enterprise building called, appropriately, Oasis House.

I had wandered into the workshop where the staff passes on the skills to people to repair, service and eventually sell refurbished garden tools. Nick explained how this social enterprise rebuilds both a stock of great tools and people’s self-esteem.

It really is a helping hand for Northampton’s homeless.

Sheik Ali from Northampton

Have you ever been curious about something and then an opportunity to find out the answer presents itself? I have. I took that opportunity today.

“Excuse me ...” I ventured to this man walking towards me. He stopped with a look of gentle curiosity on his face. After introductions we spoke together for several minutes, this gentleman, Sheik Ali, generously answered my question and gave me more than I expected.

You see, I’ve wondered why I see some men walking around with brightly coloured beards. Sheik Ali explained that as a Muslim once your hair has lost the original black colouring you are not allowed to dye it back to black, however the Prophet has said that other colours are allowed and therefore henna is used by many men as an alternative.

I’ve wanted to know this for several years. Now I do. And so do you.

I found out again today that when you approach people with a polite and genuine question it is more than likely that you will be greeted with a gentle and clear response.

Kath from Northampton

“Neighbours. Everybody needs good neighbours. With a little understanding. You can find the perfect blend.”

(Feel free to sing along in your heads to this one.)

I have the best neighbours. Kath is the best of the best. A sprightly octogenarian she still has the same warm smile on her face as when I first met her nearly two decades ago.

Winter, summer, autumn or spring you can be assured that it is the same greeting that you’ll receive from this wonderful woman. I am a relative newcomer in this area -not even my nearly two decades can touch Kath’s sixty plus years in the street.

It’s fair to say Kath has seen it all and still she has a friendly word to share with all she meets. If I had to move anywhere and choose the perfect neighbour then I’d move here and choose Kath and her husband.

Every street, community and town should have copies of Kath for themselves. Yes, I am showing off because I’ve been blessed with knowing such great people so close to home. In fact, they make home feel more like home.

Mel from Northampton

Do you ever think you don’t have enough time to do everything in your day?  A familiar feeling, I’m sure. Let me introduce you to someone who has super-filled days and still finds time to take personal responsibility for herself, her neighbourhood  ... and the planet!

Mel is a mum, a nana and a musician. Her life is a mixture of family, rock n’ roll and for extra variety she also has an allotment. When Mel is not busy on those major parts of her life she spends her time doing community work. Her main focus is with the Umbrella Fair and working with young musicians. As well as assisting with building the community up, Mel is working hard to prevent a youth building from imminent closure while trying to open another one as a community arts centre and cafe venue.

Mel loves her community and she has a big always-giving heart ... she needs it to keep going all day long. 

Douglas - met in Semilong, Northampton

"Do you live in this street?" I asked, "Just waiting for someone," was his reply when I spoke to the young man sitting against the garage door that had a 'No Parking' sign on it.

It was a brilliant summer's day and the ideal time to wait in the sunshine.

I was looking for someone else, however his casual comfort drew me to him.

Martin from Northampton

It’s the smiling eyes that attract your attention to Martin. He’s standing close to a wall with a stack of Big Issues in his hand. Calling out to passersby he sends a free gift of care to each person wrapped in his smile.

Martin has been on the same pitch for the past six years. He’s well known – a fact borne out by the people passing us as we were engaged in conversation.

“Hello, Martin love,” a woman turns to greet him as she walks by.

“Hello there,” he throws back with a wide grin before turning back to talk to me. Martin has known hard times, but he’s also know better times. No longer sleeping rough he remembers the times when he did with deep thoughtful words; he now spends some of his free time helping other homeless people. It really is a big issue.

Buying a magazine from Martin really is a gift that keeps on giving.

Ismail Ali from Northampton

I’m not the only one to have noticed this man recently. Apparently a woman from Russia stopped him with the same question I did when he was in Turkey recently, “Can I take your picture?” It seems like a perfectly normal response to a man looking as particular and dapper as this.

As we talked it transpired that I had been in the same venue with Ismail some years previously when we were both promoting different parts of our combined history as part of the Northampton Black History Association.

Ismail was previously a Chairman of the Somali Community Association in the town. He has recently founded and is current Chairman of the Somali Health Awareness Foundation. It seems he will continue to make a positive and lasting impression wherever he is and whatever he gets involved with.

Jan from Semilong, Northampton

Jan has been a fixture of Semilong, in Northampton, for over 14 years. She welcomes all people into her laundrette with a smile. Jan has a mission – and it’s not just making sure that your wash is completed efficiently – this mission is not a secret one: Jan raises funds for the Air Ambulance Service and so far this year she has raised £1,631. 

In the past seven years Jan has co-ordinated the raising of over £10,000 through sales of donated items from the laundrette. She says that without the generosity of the community none of the fund raising would have been possible.

Jan is another example of a number of ordinary people throughout the county doing extraordinary things, and all the time wearing a smile.

Rosie from Northampton

I first met Rosie at a house party. I remember her from those days many years ago. There were dozens of people flowing in and out of various rooms. Rosie personality draws your attention in a crowded room.

However, the way I think of her now is riding her bicycle through the streets of Northampton with her guitar on her back. It’s a wonderful image that I’m going to capture one day soon ...

Rosie is a passionate musician and she brings some of her passion to my home when she teaches M² some wonderful techniques. Their lessons are punctuated with laughter and music – it’s always a joy to overhear these sessions.

Sometimes there are gaps between the lessons because Rosie occasionally lives in Finland and has also been known to take her musical skills to Benin as well. Now, that’s what you’d call a travelling musician. 

Karin from Northampton

... by way of Los Angeles.

Karin is Northampton’s own Tina Turner. She has her own show and can sing, dance and act and has also performed in musicals in the United States and the West End.

With such a vibrant personality Karin’s infectious love of life is transmitted to you the moment you meet her. When she is on stage you are immediately mesmerised and taken on a journey in memory, sound and vision.

Karin is always inviting people to get involved in activities and to join her in the fun experiences of life. This amazing woman reminds me that when you have a dream and want to make it a reality, it is possible.

Phil from Northampton

It started with a casual ‘Morning,’ and now Phil, and his dog Jasper, are a regular part of my weekly routine. 

I see them when I walk in the mornings and we nearly always stop to have a chat.

Phil is a local historian, he has a mountain of knowledge that I love to hear about and, thankfully, he is willing to share. I do know, however, that Phil meets so many people during his many miles of daily walking that I am just one of many in awe of his friendliness and willingness to share precious time with them.

He seems to know everybody ... and their dog! He’s a local ever-smiling legend.

His walking is as legendary as he is. When he replaces his current walking shoes Phil’s retired pair will be placed on display in a local store because of the thousand miles he has racked up in them, and to show how well they have stood the test of time and variable weather conditions. Very apt for a shoemaking town I think.

Tony – met in Mereway, Northampton

Tony is one of those people who like people. You can tell this without saying a word, but if you do take the time to talk with Tony then you feel as if you’ve known him for years.

I met him as I was putting my shopping into the boot of the car.

We struck up a conversation and I found out that this 68 year young man does not have to work but does so anyway because he likes people. Told you so! Tony has had a career in the armed forces and has worked as an engineer. He is a family man who loves spending time with his grandchildren. He recently welcomed the first female grandchild born into the family for 18 years – he plans to spoil her with love, the same way he has with his children and other grandchildren.

A bright man whose sister shares my name! And a smile that warms your heart. It’s all good.

Glynn from Blisworth, Northamptonshire

Glynn and Oscar

M² and I met Glynn on our way back to the car. We’d just been tramping about fields and scrambling over stiles to look at bridges, trains, fields and the world from a different point of view. It was raining but that didn’t deter us. 

We saw Glynn and his dog, a bearded collie, as we headed back through the wheat fields to the road.

As is the way with most country folk we greeted each other and paused for a chat.

Glynn is an interesting man obviously full of curiosity and knowledge. He kindly shared some of this information on the adjacent railway lines, bridges, local villages and history of some village road names. He referred to himself as a ‘generalist’. Whilst we were talking his dog, Oscar, kept running off towards the tracks and barking at all the high speed trains that rushed by; a regular pastime by all account.

A fascinating and unexpected meeting with an intriguing person.