Martin, Big Issue vendor, had his “pitch” near South Kensington tube for many years and was a familiar face to many of us who lived, worked or studied locally. Born in 1941, he died suddenly on Monday 31st January 2011.
Martin was a wonderful character with a great outlook on life, given that in his last decade at least, he had such a hard one in many ways. He loved spending time in the Rose Garden in Hyde Park, and keeping up to date with sports.
Intensely independent, he refused to go to the doctor or hospital when he seemed to be ill over the last few weeks, but on his last day selling the Big Issue he said he felt much brighter, and seemed to be on the mend.
His dry humour brightened up the mornings of many of us as he chatted to passers-by in the subway from South Kensington tube station or on Exhibition Road. We will really miss him.
We would like to make a donation to the Big Issue to support their work, in memory of Martin. You may wish to remember Martin in other ways, but if you wish to join us, please make a contribution, however small.
