Forest Gate said goodbye to one of London’s most successful small business owners, reports Winston Vaughn

Wenty stands in a London street — Wenty photo taken by Ricky Newland, Wenty’s son

Wentworth Newland – known as Wenty to all the world – was one of London’s most successful small business owners. He came to the UK from Jamaica in 1967 as part of the Windrush generation.

In 1986 he opened Wenty’s tropical food in Forest Gate. In 1993 he opened a shop in Hackney’s Ridley Road market. From 1984 he operated a stall at the Notting Hill carnival.

Mourners from across London brought a carnival atmosphere to Upton Lane in Forest Gate on 12th July for Wenty’s funeral.

The horse and carriage carrying Wenty was adorned in Jamaican colours. The theme was a touch of green and many guests wore green. Some women even had green hair. There was a red van with bubbles. Jamaican flags were waved and Wenty’s beloved reggae music was booming to the delight of the crowd.

During the whole day about 2,000 guests attended this glorious celebration of Wenty’s life and his service to the community for over 40 years. Everywhere there were tributes and messages filled with love and kindness.

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