In South-east London everyone used to know Flash Harry, owner of the Harp of Erin in Deptford. I was even served by a barman once who said he had been the copper who nicked Harry.
Regardless of the facts I'm sure most of us - especially given the geography - are intrigued by the likes of the Richardsons and Co, and their notoriety. They operated some 30 odd years before I was born but I'm still fascinated; and in that respect they are 'legends'. There's a fine line obviously between idolising them but Akkers hasn't said anything untoward.
After I watched the Krays movie for the first time, I became obsessed with gangsters. I would save up my pocket money for books, films and magazines, and I even sold my Mega-Drive so that I could attend Ronnie's funeral procession. I followed all the way up to Chingford cemetery, went back to the Grave Maurice for drinks and met Charlie Richardson, Albert Donoghue and Tony Lambrianu. I was fifteen at the time and liked to think of myself as a gangster. Looking back, I was actually a bit of a horrible c**t and I still cringe at the thought of my behaviour. Those guys were no role-models to impressionable teenagers. Some say they only hurt their own ilk, but that is bollocks of the highest order. Innocent people were savaged, businesses were wrecked, families destroyed, and all for wanton greed.
I watched the video on You Tube, buttock clenchingly bad. I hope Ackers didn't pay FF too much for those 3 second answers.
I only paid him £1000 I saved up £200 a month just about managed it a lovely bloke when you got to meet him was really shocked when I heard of the news my thourghts go out to his family and son at this time
Its your money Jono and you can spend it how you like. I do admire your persistence with your book writing, and media enterprises. I hope you make it one day or at the very least get your money back.
I've got a copy of Jonno's book. It's actually very good and marks a superb achievement. Remember when we met for the first time, Jonno?
ill put them on ebay over this month again I had to have a break as my dad just had heary attack ive still got loads available might reduce it down to a fiver
