60 years not out as longest tenants are celebrated

1948 was a very eventful year, it saw the creation of the NHS, the Olympic Games came to London, and Bill and Ethel Philo moved into their council house in Barrowell Green in Winchmore Hill.

Bob Heapy presents the celebratory hamper to Bill and Ethel Philo.

The Philo’s are Enfield’s longest serving tenants, celebrating over 60 years of living in their home, and to celebrate the Chief Executive of Enfield Homes, Bob Heapy, presented them with a hamper of flowers, champagne and chocolates.

Bob said “It’s amazing to think that the Philo’s have lived in their house all this time, they have such a beautiful front garden, Bill obviously has very green fingers.”

Bill, who is 89, said there have been some changes since they moved into the street in 1948.

“Barrowell Green was just a lane when we moved in” he said “.. and there was a huge open air swimming pool across the road. The children used to love to go there.

“The roads round the back of here were built by German prisoners of War, they used to knock on our doors and offer to help us with our gardens.

“There was also a gun site based here during the War, though I am sure not a lot of people would remember that now.”

Bill has been a lifelong member of Southgate Olympic Football Club, he has been a supporter for 74 years, and all his sons have played for the club, he continues “Being a big supporter this is one of the reasons I couldn’t leave this area, the grounds are just across the road.”

Wife Ethel, who is 90 was delighted by her visit from Bob and is proud to be a council tenant, she said “We are the only council tenants in Barrowell Green now, all the other properties are now privately owned except us.”

Bob Heapy said “This lovely couple have been model tenants. We thought it was fitting to mark the occasion of their 60th year of renting with this small celebration.

“We wish all our tenants were like Mr and Mrs Philo!”

This document was last updated on 2008-09-11 11:19:50 published by the Communications team. Document Reference:LBE_133301