Memories of Ealing's Last Rag'n Bone Man

This atmospheric photograph of Sid Wilson posted by his niece has had huge response

This evocative photo of Ealing's last Rag n' Bone man posted on a social media page, has unleashed a wave of memories from bygone times and reunited old friends.

Sid Wilson was from a family of Romany gypsies and lived in Cherington Road in Hanwell.

Sid died about 20 years ago but throughtout the 50's, 60's and 70's was well known with his horse Kit Kat as he made his rounds 'calling' everyday (apart from Sunday) from Northolt to Ealing Broadway.

Locals say Sid was always polite and known to some as the 'Yeabo' man because his shout 'Rag n Bone' sounded like Yeabo! He would collect all types of unwanted household items to sell on and children would always run outdoors when he appeared to see him and horse and cart.

Another Hanwell legend, Bill Frimley has been remembered too. A good friend of Sid's he was known to have slept in the stables with his horse, Sixpence.

Sid's niece Linda Doyle who now lives in Buckinghamshire posted the photo on Hanwell's Facebook page. She said, ''I’m a bit overwhelmed at the response, I’m at a loss for words (a first for me) it is so lovely that so many people have responded and enjoyed seeing Uncle Sid, sweet sweet memories of happy carefree times.''

Linda's delighted that the photo has brought former friends together and is hoping to arrange a reunion herself. She says: '' It's a wonderful community thing and I'm glad posting this has helped add to that.''

21st November, 2017