‘A deep sense of gratitude’: Brixton Village traders celebrate Windrush 75

Brixton Village, a stone’s throw away from Windrush Square, has a strong connection to the Windrush generation, and ahead of the 75th anniversary traders have commemorated the day.

Caribbean traders in Brixton Village have made significant contributions to the community and the market’s rich history. Each of them has played a pivotal role in shaping the vibrant cultural landscape of Brixton Village.

Brian Danclair, owner of Fish, Wings and Tings, says he was drawn to the unique cultural haven of Brixton Village, which inspired him to open his restaurant in 2012.

Fish Wings and Tings has become a cherished establishment, reflecting the rich heritage of Caribbean cuisine and paying homage to the Windrush generation.

Mr Danclair said: “As the owner of a leading black-owned restaurant in Brixton, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the Windrush generation who, through their struggles, paved the way for me to open a successful restaurant in the heart of Brixton.

“I want to honour them by doing the best I can and by creating jobs and positively showcasing our heritage and being a good example for the future generations.”

Lurline Brown, the driving force behind Esme’s Herbal Roots, established her business at Market Row in Brixton Village in 2009.

Inspired by the resonating culture and community-led spirit of Brixton, Lurline created Esme’s as a go-to store for daily, organic Caribbean produce.

Her store has become a beloved staple in the market, offering a wide variety of high-quality products while keeping the story of Caribbean culture alive.

Pasty’s is a go-to convenience store that has been providing toiletries, household items and nostalgic Caribbean pieces for more than a decade. Pasty’s entrepreneurial journey began under the guidance of her mentor, Mr Martin, an old-time trader in Brixton Village.

A black-owned bookshop with Jamaican roots is dedicated to prioritising the cultural education of the Windrush generation.

Through their carefully curated selection of books, Round Table Books uplifts the many untold stories of those who have shaped our society.

Their commitment to amplifying marginalised voices is evident in their extensive collection, which includes works such as The Thread of Gold by Catherine Joy White and Granny came here on the Empire Windrush by Patrice Lawrence.

Aimee Felone, co-founder of Round Table Books, said: “Commemorating and celebrating 75 years of Windrush at the bookshop is a great honour.

“Uplifting and spotlighting the oftentimes overlooked and unheard stories of multiple generations of people from the historically important community of Brixton is a privilege.”

Pictured top: From left, Brian Danclair, owner of Fish, Wings and Tings, and Lurline Brown from Esme’s Herbal Roots (Picture: Brixton Village)