Tony's  paternal grandparents lived and worked from 47a & b Northgate street from 1912 until they died.

The street has a colourful history: a place where police officers would only venture in pairs. According to the book: "Glimpses of Ancient Leicester", it was here in the late 18th century that a machine for spinning worsted was installed.

Late at night on Saturday December 1st 1785, a half-drunken mob - fearing for their jobs, gathered in the street and rioted. Firearms were discharged from the property where the machine was housed but the unruly gathering were not to be deterred. They entered the property and destroyed as much as possible. The Mayor proceeded to read the riot act and was struck on the head by a stone thrown by one of the mob. He was to eventually die from his injuries.

It was a bit more peaceful in 1912 when Tony's grandfather, Thomas Henry Wadsworth, bought a business and continued to run it as a hardware and ironmongers. Much later still, Tony's father Tommy took over upon his return from World War Two, turning it gradually into a renowned Fishing Tackle business.

Thomas Henry (grandfather)

Elizabeth Ann (grandmother)

Thomas Henry with Tony's dad (Tommy) outside 47b

47b Northgate street in the late 60s

similar aspect probably circa 50s

a pen and ink drawing by Leicestershire artist Olwen Hughes commissioned by Tony and published in the Leicester Mercury in 1986.

A splendid watercolour of Northgate street set in the 30s/40s by Leicestershire artist David Weston 47b is the second building from the left

Northgate street as it is today

Demolition of Northgate street bridge 1980