Sad news from Platform 1

Mr Patel on platform 1 at Radlett station

UPDATE: Vinu Patel’s cremation will take place at Golders Green Crematorium at 4pm on Friday 13 February.

Terribly sad news this weekend. From a sign on his newspaper stand at Radlett station, we learn that Vinu Patel, who had kept the Radlett station newspaper stand for over 15 20 years and a newsagent in the village before that, has died. He’d been poorly for a week or two and the stand was closed for all of last week.

I’ve been commuting from Radlett since 1999 and Mr Patel has been a friendly presence on platform 1 for all of that time. We chatted for a minute or two almost daily for all those years: usually about the weather, sometimes about cricket or his family or holiday plans. I know that so many other Radlett commuters did just the same and they’ll miss him terribly.

He was a lovely man and a hard-working example to us all. If you’re in touch with his family I’d be pleased if you’d let me know so that I can provide more information about their plans.

6 comments

  1. This is sad. I grew up in Radlett and he owned the sweetie shop when I was a child. He was an important part of my childhood!

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  2. I knew Mr Patel for probably 30 years ,even when he owned the paper shop next to Barry Allsuch.I believe the name was Jupps.He was such a lovely man ,so friendly and hardworking even in the coldest of weathers. If only he had managed to sell the business a couple of years ago ……RIP

    Alan

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  3. What a terrible loss. Lovely man who made the station a warmer place. I have had the pleasure of knowing him for years and even though I started taking the train from the mid 90’s I don’t remember a time he wasn’t there. Such a hard working family, always there in all weathers with a smile and a story. He will be sorely missed. I hope the station will arrange a plaque for us to remember him by.

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  5. Really sad to hear this. a genuinely nice man who was still serving us all in all the elements. Condolences to his wife & family.

    Reply

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