Writer Sandra Shevey, whose name is more closely identified with megastars and Hollywood biographies (`The Marilyn Scandal` and `The Other Side of Lennon`), has turned her interest to London`s street markets and since 1990 (when she was into her fifties and unemployed) has been championing the survival of these old relics in print and by way of the walks which she runs.
Exploiting the concept `write about what you know` Sandra played upon her own love of London, tourism and walking to devise a company specializing in tours around London`s earthy street markets. She began with one; and then two; three; and now seven: ferreting out the local stories and tales which make up a neighbourhood`s identity and oral history and imparting them to people who love walking and markets as much as she does.
London`s magazines and newspapers were quick to pick up on the uniqueness of her idea and were highly enthusiastic in their praise. It is because of their support that she has stuck with it through times good and bad and is now planning to add another couple of markets to the group.
So what's up next? A Street Market bus, of course.
Well done, Sandra!
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