K C

This is KC Patel. He’s originally from the Gujarat region of India and cane to England in 1968. His first job was working at Balham Post Office in South London. He set up 'Little India' gift shop in nearby Tooting in 1973 with his brother (who now owns the shop next door). KC has always lived in Tooting and says that over the last 51 years, ‘Britain has been very good to him’. He loves where he lives and knows many of his neighbours.

KC has two daughters who both have jobs in the city. One of KC's daughters works for a large American investment house, but was in the store chatting to a customer when I took this shot. It’s Diwali, and during this busy holiday time of year, KC’s daughters take time off from their office jobs to help Dad in the store. He really appreciates their help as Meena, his wife of 66 years, who always worked alongside him, sadly passed away 2 years ago.

KC loves his shop. He loves the sense of community that comes with being a local shopkeeper. He said that unlike English stores, people are always popping into Little India to chat, even if they don't need to buy anything. KC told me that children that once came into his shop now come in as adults with their own children - he's watched them grow up from behind the counter.

KC will never retire. 'I will work here as long as I am physically able' he told me with a small smile. England has always been known as a 'Nation of shopkeepers' and KC, with his love of his shop and customers exemplifies that famous saying.