Henry Jones

Born on Stoney Lane, E1, at his parent’s shop (Jones Brothers Dairy), Henry Jones is a true East Londoner. Having lived and worked in London for his whole life, he is well and truly a part of the fabric of the local area, with plenty of tales and stories to tell! A key local figure and someone who is deeply ingrained in the local community, we sat down with Henry to learn more about life in London and his time in Petticoat Lane.

Henry, tell us a little bit more about yourself…

I was born at my parent’s shop on Stoney Lane, known as Jones Brothers Dairy, just a stones’ throw from Petticoat Lane. My parents served the area with fresh dairy and other produce, with the shop serving as the base for their local milk delivery rounds.
Christened at St. Botolph’s Church, I attended St. John Cass Primary School in Aldgate, inside the Portsoken Ward of the City. By the time I was 6 years of age, my mother was extremely ill, so I spent much of my time living with my aunt Elsie, my father’s twin sister in Streatham. Mum sadly passed away in 1962 at the young age of 40. Although I was only 6, I remember it being a tough time for the family. By the time I was 11, I had moved back in with my father at Artisans Dwellings, next to Petticoat Lane, along with my two brothers, Trevor and David, and my Uncle Dee.
It wasn’t long before I found myself working in the shop, all the while attending school, so I got to know the area very well and the people who lived there. I attended St. Johns Cass Secondary School until I was 15 years old, then went straight into working for the family business full time. It was hard work in those days. Early mornings and late nights were all part and parcel of a day’s work, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

As I got older, I took a keen interest in helping the community and in 2003 I was elected as a councillor to represent the Portsoken Ward in the City of London, a position I am proud and very grateful to still hold today. I am also the Chair on the City side of the Petticoat Lane Regeneration Project, and I am a member of the Aldgate BID. One of my proudest achievements was in 2021 when I received an MBE from Her Majesty the Queen for my charitable work and for my role in helping the community over the years and during the Covid pandemic.

I still live close by in the Isle of Dogs, but my roots will remain firmly established here in Petticoat Lane.

What do you love most about Petticoat Lane and why?

For me, it has to be the history of the area and the sense of community. Growing up, it didn’t matter where you were from or who you were, it was such a diverse place to live, and everyone helped each other out. I remember the area as a busy one. Especially on a Sunday, when the Petticoat Lane market was on. I would fly pitch at the market each Sunday and earn more in one day than I did for a whole week working in the family business! The area had a real buzz about it. Petticoat Lane was a destination spot, with people travelling from all over just to be there.

What’s your most memorable moment at Petticoat Lane?

My most memorable moment from the area would be eating my tea at Strongwater’s American Diner. It is such a vivid memory in my mind. Most likely due to the stainless-steel furnishings and the bright red seating! The place overawed me, and I became completely fascinated as it was one of the first American style diners in the area. I have so many memories of the area, I could write a book!

What does Petticoat Lane mean to you?

Petticoat Lane means everything to me. It played such a significant role in shaping my life, from my home, my work, my family, and the friendships I made along the way.

Favourite place(s) to eat on Petticoat Lane and what do you recommend to order?

Where do I start? There are so many great places. If I had to choose three, the first would have to be Fernandos Pizzeria on White Kennett Street. I can recommend any pizza or pasta dish – I have had them all!

Another place is the Barcelona Tapas Bar on Middlesex Street. They serve up the most amazing authentic Spanish Tapas. Make sure to order the Spanish Croquettes if you ever drop by. You will not be disappointed!

Last, but not least would be Happy Days Fish shop which is where I take two Senior Clubs to eat regularly. I normally have grilled salmon, but large haddock and chips seems to be the most popular!