Man in suit carrying two drinks in the Globe Town Social club, East London, black and white photography

"Globe Town Social club, had a great night in there taking photos of all the regulars, really friendly and really cheap drinks."

Life, laughter and liquor on Roman Road [photoessay]

28 February 20181 September 2023 Anastasia Miari

Local photographer Andrew Leo has made it his mission to capture the faces of our beloved Roman Road in Bow and Globe Town, in the shops and the markets – shooting in a moody, documentary style to capture the atmosphere and character of the place he loves to call home. Here, he selects his favourites, along with details of his subjects, in his own words. See also Colourful characters of Roman Road for more Andrew Leo photography.

‘Mark and his 100 yr old Barrow, he took over from his Dad Leslie at Globe Town Market, he had been there for over 30 years and his Dad and Granddad before him.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Ken and Mark at Whistles on Roman Road. I’ve never seen either one of them the slightest bit angry at anything. Along with a few mates of mine I reckon I’ve taken about a third of my wardrobe in there over the years, they’re as busy as ever and have this photo up in the shop.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Michael works with Mark on the Fruit and Veg stall at Globe Town Market, every time I see him he’s going on holiday.’ © Andrew Leo

Two men on roman road market black and white photography — Roman Road Market

‘Jacko at The Florist, Bert’s best mate and another lovely bloke. Grew up by Cambridge Heath Road with 8 brothers and sisters.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Riz at Tony’s hair salon on Roman Road, the salon has been there since 1960.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Del Downey is a 3rd generation fishmonger at Globe Town Market Square. He likes a hat and apparently loves a bit of fancy dress as well.’ © Andrew Leo

‘The Social Club used to be 2 floors, the upstairs was Globe Town Amateur Boxing Club.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Michael, the manager at Zee and Co clothes shop – it’s been around for 27 years.’ © Andrew Leo

‘Globe Town Social Club, we got bought drinks all night in here.’ © Andrew Leo

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One thought on “Life, laughter and liquor on Roman Road [photoessay]”

Karina Game

7 March 2018 at 9:56 am

Lovely photos Leo of all the old eastenders , theres not too many of us left any more. Lots of love Karina , Mum and dad xx