“It was my nemesis, I hated Croydon with a real vengeance. It represented everything I didn’t want in my life, everything I wanted to get away from. I think it’s the most derogatory thing I can say about somebody or something: God, it’s so fucking Croydon!” (David Bowie)
Croydon is situated in South London, England, 9.3 miles (south of Charing Cross; it is one of the largest commercial districts in Greater London. Croydon was the location of London’s main airport until the Second World War. During the war, much of central Croydon was devastated by German V-1 flying bombs and V-2 rockets, and for many years the town bore the scars of the destruction.
In recent years it has faced significant financial difficulties and growing gang violence that have given it a notorious reputation. Former residents include Kate Moss, Stormzy, Tracey Emin and Captain Sensible.
I lived and worked in and around Croydon from 2002 until 2021. I still return occasionally.
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That Darren Lehane 