Albert Edward West (Ted) was born on August 8 1929 to parents Albert Edward West and Annie Lillian West (nee Gibson).

From North Middlesex Hospital where he was born, the couple took Ted to the family’s first home in Castle Road in Kentish Town West. At this time Ted was the couple’s only child, and the trio fitted comfortably into their one bedroom unit.

By 1939 Ted would be joined by three brothers — Bob, Ray and Terry. Ted recalls the details of the cosy accommodation.

“There were two rooms; one was just a bedroom for everyone, and the other room was an everything room – living, kitchen, sink,” he said.

“On the stairs in the middle there was the toilet, which was for three families.

“When it came to bath night, which was Sunday night, Mum would bring the galvanised bath up and we’d bathe in front of the fire.

“Mum and Dad had a bed, and all the kids had a bigger bed. If any of my aunties or uncles were over we’d all top and tail.”