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Fortress Totobag: The Story of the Notting Hill Riots

Henry Bonsu recalls the Notting Hill riots of 1958. At 9 Blenheim Crescent, known as Fortress Totobag, fighting between West Indians and teddy boys reached a peak on September 1.

Henry Bonsu recalls the Notting Hill riots of August 1958. At 9 Blenheim Crescent, known as Fortress Totobag, fighting between West Indians and teddy boys reached a peak on Monday September 1. The cafe acted as a community centre and information bureau for newcomers to the area, but also served as a gambling den and Caribbean music venue. As white hostility to the growing black presence grew, tensions erupted into violence.

Contributors include Velma Davis, Clarence Thompson, Marika Sherwood and Alex Pascall.

1 hour

Last on

Sat 16 Aug 2008 20:00

Broadcast

  • Sat 16 Aug 2008 20:00