With royalty in the news Julia Omari interviews Forest Gate’s Pearly King Bob Paice

How long have you been connected to Newham?

All my life, I was born in Plaistow in 1948 and have lived in Stratford ever since.

©2023, London, UK. 18th April 2023 Bob Paice and his wife Sue, together they are the Pearly King and Queen of Forest Gate. Photographed outside his fathers house in Stratford, east London, where Bob with his family celebrated the late Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation 2nd June 1953. Bob worked until his retirement, as a Jewel House Warden, at the Tower of London. Photographer Andrew Baker

What’s your favourite Newham moment?

I feel that the Olympics back in 2012 was a brilliant event, well organised and really brought Stratford to life.

Most inspirational Newham person?

Going back to my younger days, I was inspired by how people helped each other, even though they did not have much themselves.

Favourite place to eat in Newham?

This one is easy, it is definitely the Eastern Palace Chinese restaurant in Forest Gate. We are like family as we have been customers there since 1974. The food is fantastic and the staff are amazing, I would recommend anyone who likes Chinese to give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.

Favourite Newham outdoor space?

I would have to say West Ham park which isn’t far from me, it is a great outdoor space for all sorts of things. They have tennis courts, cricket areas to practise, outside gym, play- ground and a lovely peaceful garden area.

How would you spend a free day in Newham?

When the weather is good, I usually go for a walk around the park. I also sometimes go to my local Wetherspoons and have a sneaky pint.

You’re the Pearly King of Forest Gate, tell us what that is like.

It is an honour and privilege to be a member of the London Pearly Kings and Queens Society. This enables me to fund raise for charities in London. You also get to meet some very interesting people.

Finish this sentence

Newham is …. a diverse and upcoming borough.

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