Salvation comes to Wanstead High Street

In the midst of the bad times on Wanstead High Street (closures, exits, unfortunate openings) one treasure trove has stood firm – the pet shop Heads ‘n’ Tails, run by Mas Beg since 1999. So valued is this little outpost of humanity, that the Wanstead Society named Mas Shopkeeper of the Year last year.

But uncertainty clouded over the shop’s future as redevelopment work took place in the disused and crumbling former antiques market next door.

But the GLORIOUS news for Wanstead is that Mas will be moving his shop next door into much larger, refurbished premises probably twice as big as his current shop. Which means that he is planning to stock not only pets and plants, but also a wider range of household and even DIY goods.

The new shop is expected to open in September.

Which means readers of Wansteadium have a few weeks in which to compile a list of things they would buy in Wanstead if they could. Top of the list, of course, Polyfilla.

You are welcome to add to the list below.

1. Polyfilla
2. Evo-Stick
3. String

4. Sink plunger (nominated by @JimSpin for his neighbour)

5. Dustpan and broom (nominated by Ray Liffen)

6. Mothballs, lightbulbs and clothes pegs (nominated by @yenwodt for mrs yenwodt)

New improved weather for Wansteadium

We now have a new, improved, weather service for Wansteadium, with a four-day forecast, wind speeds, temperatures in Celsius, and even humidity. Thanks to the developers.

Any feedback on this would be useful, eg is the forecast accurate? Is it useful? Does it update frequently enough? Why does it show a blazing sun in the middle of the night? Please let us know by e-mailing at wansteadium[at]gmail.com or via comments on this post.

And while you’re at it, if there’s anything else you’d find useful to see on Wansteadium, just say. Our passion for public service is undimmed.

 

Letter to Wansteadium: Old photo hunt

Peter Sceats of the Foresters Scooter Club writes:

Hi. I am trying to get photos and information about the old Vespa and Lambretta dealer which used to be in Wanstead High Street, at the junction with Hermon Hill. It was called Masons, but it was replaced by a piano shop and then the Elizabeth Price estate agents. Thanks in advance, Peter Sceats (Foresters Scooter Club, founded in Wanstead in 1957).

You can send information and pictures to us at wansteadium[at]gmail.com