Wednesday, 8 February, saw representatives from Love Hatfield, Hatfield Town Council, and a crowd of loyal customers help pay tribute to John “The Wool Man” Gregory.
The owner of Hatfield market’s much-loved wool stall had recently announced his decision to close his stall in the town centre after 45 years of trading. A staple part of the town’s weekly market, John’s stall had served countless residents of Hatfield and beyond since first setting up in the late ’70s. The stall quickly became the number one source of wool materials for many locals, and from it, John witnessed the many changes to the town centre landscape.
Tributes From John’s Loyal Customers
Attending the celebration on Wednesday morning, a group of the stall’s regulars spoke of their love for John’s humour and customer service, proudly stating their preference for his services (and prices) over many shops and department stores selling similar products. Local resident Lorraine Cook said, “for many people, especially those who were older and living on their own, the banter they had with John really brightened their day.”
Gift Presentation
As well as best wishes, John received a couple of cases of Guinness (his favourite tipple) and an engraved tankard from the Council, presented to him by our Town Clerk, Jonah Anthony, to thank him for his many years of service to the people of Hatfield.
What’s Next For John?
On what is next for him now that he is moving on, John commented that, right now, he isn’t sure; “I don’t know yet; I’ve not got a clue! Hopefully, maybe I’ll find a couple of jobs in the market industry in London – because I can still use my mouth, as you probably have realised! But really, the world is my oyster. I might pop back to Hatfield for a cup of tea in a couple of months, but I might be halfway round the world by then!”
On behalf of everyone at Hatfield Town Council, we wish John the best for the future.
