15/06/2026
Paper Jack
Extract from the book ‘All Our Yesterdays’ reads:
“‘Paper Jack’, a tramp who dressed in rolled newspapers held together with string (except for his shoes which were made from old car tyre inner tubes) passing the Plough Inn at Beddington. He was a well known character in the area, friendly and talkative, except when asked the reason for his strange way of life. He is usually said to have taken to the road after having been jilted in love.
His real name was Alfred Ellis Preece. He was killed by a car in Benson Road, Waddon, in January 1935.”
Do you remember any other local “characters” from the area?
I remember the guy on roller skates who would pirouette his way around town, and the lady who was often seen dressed in what looked like curtains, asking passers-by for a pound.
Special thank you to those who sent me images of Jesusman, Water Tank Man and The Projekt Store for the image of Wizard Man in their shop 19th June 2018.
As always, my posts are drawn from a combination of my ever-growing collection of books and publications, your comments and suggestions, and my own experiences of growing up in this wonderful area.
