Latest news with #RomaniGypsy
Daily Mirror
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a real Gypsy, life isn't about fights, it's about love, toilets and bleach'
A Romani Gypsy family have slammed 'nonsense' TV shows like My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding for perpetuating myths about their culture - as they reveal what their daily life really looks like A family of Romani Gypsies have lifted the lid on their culture and 'proud' traditions - busting myths peddled by TV shows which they say get it all wrong. The big brood - complete with 15 adults, 14 kids and a whole host of animals - have established a permanent residence at a disused Wigmore Coach Park off the M2 in Kent. They say misconceptions caused by shows like My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, often paint them in an unfavourable light. The elder of the family, Oldy Herring, 67, and his wife Tina insist that 'nonsense' traditions like 'grabbing' at Gypsy weddings are fabricated and straight-up offensive. "We don't believe in that; that's just something the young boys started doing," Oldy said. "If you tried to grab a Gypsy girl at a wedding, you would get a punch: that's disrespecting that woman." Unlike the inaccurate stereotypes you'll see on TV, the couple explained that Romani Gypsy culture revolves around family, religion, respect for elders, storytelling, animals, cleanliness, charity and community. "That Big Gypsy Weddings show… It's a load of nonsense. That brought on the misconceptions - it's all put on," Oldy insisted. The family recently won the right to permanently stay at the former park and ride after winning a landmark case against Medway Council - which spent as much as £100,000 in taxpayer money fighting it. But they believe the only reason people don't want to live alongside them is that they know so little about them and their culture. Sadly, due to reports of 'Gypsies' causing trouble across the country, they say they're often 'tarred with the same brush'. "I have kept my family together all of my life," Oldy, who has 18 great-grandchildren and around the same number of grandchildren, said, adding: "There's a birthday every week! "People look down on us like we have just come from Mars. We are rough and ready, but any one of you can have bread and cheese with us - we are human." Despite settling at the Kent site, Oldy - who says he has never been to school in his life - explains that the family will continue their Romani Gypsy traditions that have stayed strong for centuries. He revealed that marriages and funerals are the big calendar occasions, as well as Christmas. The jumping of the broomstick, where newly married couples go hand-in-hand over a brush, is a wedding tradition that lives on. And despite mostly sticking to their own community, there's no rules against marrying outsiders. "We try to marry in the Roma community, but you don't have to," Oldy said. "Once [outsiders] are in, they often don't want to leave. Once you are married, you are married for life. And the girls go and live with their husbands and their families." "Girls have got to be kept pure until they are married," Oldy's wife, Tina, added. "Everyone travels to be together for weddings and funerals. Everyone will come from miles around.' Keeping a sparkling clean home is also essential to their way of life, and Tina says it helps to stop the spread of diseases in their community. "We like a bottle of bleach and always have done," she added "A lot of people only use bleach in their toilets, but we use it everywhere. We've got funny beliefs and strict rules." Another of these strict principles, Tina explained, is that toilets and showers inside their caravans are never used, saying: "Never in a million years do you use the toilet or shower in your caravan. It's too close to your sink." Instead they use publicly available shower blocks and toilets, or facilities in gyms and pubs. Oldy adds that he would pray their next site would be clean when he was a young lad, as it was always his responsibility to clear it. "And people have the cheek to say, 'Dirty, stinking gypsies'," he said. Tina also revealed a lesser-known tradition after the passing of loved ones in the Romani Gypsy community, saying: "When you die, if there's no one to live in your caravan, the caravan gets burned." Food, as in most cultures, also plays a major part in bringing together the family for evening meals. Traditional dishes, like meat puddings and rice puddings, are cooked in centuries-old cast-iron pots that have cooked thousands of meals over the years. Tina explained that the pots - always heated over dead wood, which 'doesn't smoke' - lock the taste and smell of the food cooked in them. "Meat's a big part of our diet," Tina said. "I have never met a vegetarian Gypsy in my life." Despite Gypsy communities having a reputation for violence and bare-knuckle boxing, Oldy claims that the majority of the time, rows are settled with words rather than fists. Their Christian beliefs play a huge part in how they live day to day. This is the first time the family have been given permission to stay permanently at a site, meaning their children can continue studying at local schools. "All we want is somewhere to stop," Oldy said. "We keep it clean and tidy and nobody has complained about us. "We went to the courts and won our case. We are a quiet family and we are willing to pay our way. We pay to stay here, for the bins and the toilets. Our children love the school here. "I have never been to school in my life. It's not because we're stupid, it's because we've not had a place to call home. The kids ask with their homework, 'Is this right?' and I say, 'You tell me!'" Oldy explained the kids are 'over the moon' at being able to have birthday parties, which they were hesitant to have while moving around for fear of being moved on. Tina explained they were once moved on three times one Christmas Eve. The family recalls horrific racism against their people in decades gone by, with Oldy claiming a police officer once said to him: "Hitler had the right idea with you; they should've shot you all." Other awful instances include burning tyres being rolled under caravans in which children slept and having pesticide purposefully sprayed on them and their belongings. Tina also remembers cruel children's nursery rhymes warning against 'playing with Gypsies', saying this added fuel to the fire of people's perception of them. Cllr Satinder Shokar, of Medway Council, who has supported the families at the Wigmore Coach Park site 'from day one', says he's personally seen evidence of racism against the families from the authorities. "What I realised as a councillor was that the racism within organisations is institutionalised racism," he said. "There's not anywhere we didn't encounter it. We felt it important that their voices were heard. "[Being granted permanent residence at the Wigmore site] is another key victory for these families, offering further hope after years of repeated planning refusals. Oldy revealed that he doesn't blame outsiders for their misinformed view of his people. He says those who give Romani Gypsies a bad name, leaving heaps of rubbish behind them after festivals and gatherings, often aren't even Gypsies but just 'like the way of life' and are 'lost'. He added: "Our way of life is coming to an end. But we don't want our tradition and culture to end. We are holding our hands up and saying, 'We want to stay here'. This is paradise for us. Just stopping here... It's like winning the lottery. They are realising we are human beings."
Scottish Sun
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
We're a real gypsy family of 29 people – traditions people don't know including why we jump over brooms & burn caravans
The family spoke of cruel backlash they have received over the years TRAVELLER WAYS We're a real gypsy family of 29 people – traditions people don't know including why we jump over brooms & burn caravans Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A FAMILY of Romani Gypsies have lifted the lid on their 'proud' traditions, busting myths peddled by TV shows and revealing how life revolves around food, family - and bleach. The family of 15 adults and 14 children, who have established a permanent camp at the disused Wigmore Coach Park off the M2 in Kent, said misconceptions thanks to shows like My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding often paint them in an unfavourable light. 17 Oldy and Tina Herring have made a permanent camp at the disused Wigmore Coach Park in Kent Credit: SWNS 17 The family of 15 adults and 14 children have created a community together that follows Romany gypsy traditions Credit: SWNS 17 Oldy Herring, left, is the elder of the Gypsy family unit Credit: SWNS Oldy Herring - who is now the elder of the family unit at 67 but was once the youngest - and his wife Tina say 'nonsense' fake traditions such as 'grabbing' at Gypsy weddings are made up and offensive. Oldy insists that, in reality, if a young Gypsy tried to grab a young woman at a wedding he'd get little more than a black eye from her family for his lack of respect. Instead, the couple explained that Romani Gypsy culture revolves around family, respect for elders, religion, storytelling, animals, cleanliness, charity and community. The family - who live with a whole host of animals - recently won the right to permanently stay at the former park and ride after winning a landmark case against Medway Council - which spent as much as £100,000 in taxpayer money fighting the case. But they say the only reason people don't want to live alongside them is that they know so little about them and their rich culture. However, due to reports of 'Gypsies' causing trouble across the country, the families say they're often 'tarred with the same brush'. "I have kept my family together all of my life," Oldy, who has 18 great-grandchildren and around the same number of grandchildren, adding: "There's a birthday every week! "We've got feelings and we've got respect for ourselves and decency for other people. We have been like that all our lives. "But people look down on us like we have just come from Mars. "We are rough and ready, but any one of you can have bread and cheese with us - we are human. Gypsy Rose Blanchard reveals reason behind 25lb weight loss as she flaunts slim waist after giving birth "People who put their noses up at us, all I say is: come and find out who we are. We just try and keep ourselves to ourselves. "They give us a bad name until they get to know us, then they realise we are not like they think we are. "People are frightened by the myth. We've just got a bad name." Despite settling down at the Kent site, Oldy - who admits never having been to school in his life - says the family will continue their Romani Gypsy traditions that have been around for centuries. 17 The family has made a permanent home in the area Credit: SWNS 17 This is the first time the family have been granted permission to stay permanently at a site Credit: SWNS MARRIAGE TRADITIONS He explained that marriages and funerals are the big calendar occasions, as well as Christmas. The jumping of the broomstick, where newly married couples go hand-in-hand over a brush, is a wedding tradition that lives on. And despite mostly keeping it in the Romani Gypsy community, there's no rules against marrying outsiders. "We try to marry in the Roma community, but you don't have to," Oldy said. If you tried to grab a Gypsy girl at a wedding, you would get a punch: that's disrespecting that woman Oldy Herring "Once [outsiders] are in, they often don't want to leave. "Once you are married, you are married for life. And the girls go and live with their husbands and their families." "Girls have got to be kept pure until they are married," Oldy's wife, Tina, added. "Everyone travels to be together for weddings and funerals. Everyone will come from miles around." 17 The family explained that Romani Gypsy culture revolves around family, respect for elders, religion, storytelling, animals, cleanliness, charity and community Credit: SWNS TV BACKLASH However, Oldy says shows such as My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding have peddled offensive falsities about some supposed traditions. The controversial act of 'grabbing' seen on the show, where young men throw women over their shoulders to force a kiss, is one myth Oldy wanted to bust. "We don't believe in that; that's just something the young boys started doing," he said. "That Big Gypsy Weddings show… It's a load of nonsense. That brought on the misconceptions - it's all put on. 17 The family - who live with a whole host of animals - recently won the right to permanently stay at the former park Credit: SWNS 17 Some of the caravans have awning extensions of them Credit: SWNS "If you tried to grab a Gypsy girl at a wedding, you would get a punch: that's disrespecting that woman." "Lots of things were wrong on that show," Tina agreed. "Religion is a big part of our culture. Everybody believes in the Lord and bringing kids up with Christian values." Tina added that charity was also a big part of the culture. "Because we know what it's like to not have any bread in you, or not to have a roof over your head," Oldy rejoined. "If we see someone who needs help, we help them. We can't understand why people don't do the same for us." 17 Children playing on the traveller site Credit: SWNS KEEPING CLEAN Keeping a clean home is also essential to their way of life, with Tina crediting it for helping to stop the spread of diseases in their community. "We like a bottle of bleach and always have done," she said. "A lot of people only use bleach in their toilets, but we use it everywhere. "We've got funny beliefs and strict rules." Another of these beliefs, Tina explained, is that toilets and showers inside their caravans are never used, saying: "Never in a million years do you use the toilet or shower in your caravan. "It's too close to your sink." 17 The family continue Romani Gypsy traditions that have been around for centuries Credit: SWNS Instead they use publicly available shower blocks and toilets, or facilities in gyms and pubs. Oldy adds that he would pray their next site would be clean when he was a young boy, as it was always his job to clear it. "And people have the cheek to say, 'Dirty, stinking gypsies'," he said. Once you are married, you are married for life. And the girls go and live with their husbands and their families Oldy Herring Tina also revealed a lesser-known tradition after the passing of loved ones in the Romani Gypsy community, saying: "When you die, if there's no one to live in your caravan, the caravan gets burned." Animals and storytelling also play big roles in Romani Gypsy life. "Because we couldn't read or write, we told stories," Oldy said. "Animals are a big part of our lives; the country is our lives, and we love the country." 17 Toilets and showers inside their caravans are never used Credit: SWNS DISHING UP Food, as in most cultures, also plays a huge part in bringing together the family for evening meals. 'Old-fashioned' dishes, like meat puddings and rice puddings, are cooked in centuries-old cast-iron pots that have cooked thousands of meals over the years. The ancient pots hang in an open shed on the family's site, under which a young Jack Russell puppy barks below a framed photo of the Kray twins, who were of Romani descent. Tina explained that the pots - always heated over dead wood, which 'doesn't smoke' - lock the taste and smell of the food cooked in them. 17 Oldy says shows such as My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding have peddled offensive falsities about some supposed traditions Credit: SWNS "Meat's a big part of our diet," Tina said. "I have never met a vegetarian gypsy in my life." Despite a reputation for violence and bare-knuckle boxing, Oldy claims that the majority of the time, disputes are settled with words rather than fists. Their Christian values also encourage them to help out others in need, such as motorists who've broken down near their site. Tina also recalled stepping in during the beating of a young girl, who she took in and cleaned up after intervening. This is the first time the family have been granted permission to stay permanently at a site, meaning their children can continue studying at local schools. 17 The family recalls horrific instances of racism against their people in decades gone by Credit: SWNS "All we want is somewhere to stop," Oldy continued. "We keep it clean and tidy and nobody has complained about us. "We went to the courts and won our case. We are a quiet family and we are willing to pay our way. We pay to stay here, for the bins and the toilets. "Our children love the school here. I have never been to school in my life. It's not because we're stupid, it's because we've not had a place to call home. "The kids ask with their homework, 'Is this right?' and I say, 'You tell me!'. "I am trying to bring my children up the best way I can. "There's a lot of people who think travelling is a good way of life. "You've got to be born with this and it goes through generations. "I am so proud of being a gypsy. There's good and bad, but they all paint us with the same brush." 17 The family is now content to stay at the Wigmore Coach Park site Credit: SWNS 17 Keeping a clean home is also essential to their way of life, Credit: SWNS LONG-TERM HOME Having spent their lives up until now constantly on the move, only looking for a new site 'once we got bored', the family is now content to stay at the Wigmore Coach Park site, saying it's become more and more difficult to keep moving. Oldy said the kids are 'over the moon' at being able to have birthday parties, which they were reluctant to have whilst moving around for fear of being moved on - with Tina saying they were once moved on three times one Christmas Eve. The family recalls horrific instances of racism against their people in decades gone by, with Oldy claiming a police officer once told him: "Hitler had the right idea with you; they should've shot you all." 17 The family insist they are trying to bring up their children in the best way they can Credit: SWNS Other horror stories include burning tyres being rolled under caravans in which children slept and having pesticide purposefully sprayed on them and their belongings. Tina also recounts children's nursery rhymes warning against 'playing with Gypsies', saying this added fuel to the fire of people's perception of them. Cllr Satinder Shokar, of Medway Council, who has supported the families at the Wigmore Coach Park site 'from day one', says he's personally seen evidence of racism against the families from the authorities. "What I realised as a councillor was that the racism within organisations is institutionalised racism," he said. "There's not anywhere we didn't encounter it. We felt it important that their voices were heard. "[Being granted permanent residence at the Wigmore site] is another key victory for these families, offering further hope after years of repeated planning refusals. 17 Family life has a big focus on animals Credit: SWNS "With over 90 per cent of applications refused nationwide, until these figures change, the long-term trend of cultural apartheid against the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community will persist." It was revealed recently that cash-strapped Medway Council spent as much as £100,000 in taxpayer money on court fees fighting against the family's right to remain at the site. Oldy says he doesn't blame outsiders for their misinformed, stereotypical perception of his people. A closer look at gypsy traditions HERE we take a look at some of the traditions many gypsies follow... Family-Centric Living: The family is the cornerstone of Romani life, with extended families often living close to one another. Elders are highly respected and play a crucial role in decision-making and maintaining cultural traditions. Nomadic Heritage: Many Gypsy communities maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally to find work or attend cultural gatherings. This tradition is deeply rooted in their history and identity. Distinctive Décor: Romani homes, whether they are caravans or fixed abodes, are often brightly decorated with vibrant colours and intricate patterns. These decorations reflect their rich cultural heritage and love for beauty. Communal Gatherings: Social gatherings are a significant part of Gypsy life. Celebrations, such as weddings and religious festivals, are grand affairs involving music, dance, and feasting, often stretching over several days. Spiritual Practices: Many Gypsy families incorporate a blend of Christian beliefs and traditional spiritual practices. Homes may feature religious icons and amulets believed to offer protection and bring good fortune. Craftsmanship and Artistry: Romani people are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in metalwork, woodwork, and textiles. These skills are often passed down through generations and are a source of both pride and livelihood. Hospitality: Hospitality is a valued tradition. Guests are treated with great respect and generosity, often being offered the best food and drink available as a sign of honour and goodwill. Sharing Stories: Storytelling is a vital part of Romani culture, preserving history, morals, and lessons through generations. Elders often share tales that are both entertaining and educational. He says those who give his people a bad name, leaving trails of rubbish behind them after festivals and gatherings, often aren't even Gypsies but just 'like the way of life' and are 'lost'. Oldy said the same could also be said of many of those outside the Gypsy community, saying: "There's no respect. "I think they've just lost their way, but there's nothing wrong with them. "Respect for the elders is a big thing for us: respect your parents and grandparents. "We don't believe in letting our children go. That's our job, from the moment I got my eldest son. "Our way of life is coming to an end. But we don't want our tradition and culture to end. "We are holding our hands up and saying, 'We want to stay here'. "This is paradise for us. Just stopping here... It's like winning the lottery. "They are realising we are human beings." "We are comfortable here," Tina agreed. "We are starting to be accepted."
The Irish Sun
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
We're a real gypsy family of 29 people – traditions people don't know including why we jump over brooms & burn caravans
A FAMILY of Romani Gypsies have lifted the lid on their 'proud' traditions, busting myths peddled by TV shows and revealing how life revolves around food, family - and bleach. The family of 15 adults and 14 children, who have established a permanent camp at the disused Wigmore Coach Park off the M2 in Kent , said misconceptions thanks to shows like My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding often paint them in an unfavourable light. 17 Oldy and Tina Herring have made a permanent camp at the disused Wigmore Coach Park in Kent Credit: SWNS 17 The family of 15 adults and 14 children have created a community together that follows Romany gypsy traditions Credit: SWNS 17 Oldy Herring, left, is the elder of the Gypsy family unit Credit: SWNS Oldy Herring - who is now the elder of the family unit at 67 but was once the youngest - and his wife Tina say 'nonsense' fake traditions such as 'grabbing' at Gypsy weddings are made up and offensive. Oldy insists that, in reality, if a young Gypsy tried to grab a young woman at a wedding he'd get little more than a black eye from her family for his lack of respect. Instead, the couple explained that Romani Gypsy culture revolves around family, respect for elders, religion, storytelling, animals, cleanliness, charity and community. The family - who live with a whole host of animals - recently won the right to permanently stay at the former park and ride after winning a landmark case against Medway Council - which spent as much as £100,000 in taxpayer money fighting the case. More on gypsies But they say the only reason people don't want to live alongside them is that they know so little about them and their rich culture. However, due to reports of 'Gypsies' causing trouble across the country, the families say they're often 'tarred with the same brush'. "I have kept my family together all of my life," Oldy, who has 18 great-grandchildren and around the same number of grandchildren, adding: "There's a birthday every week! "We've got feelings and we've got respect for ourselves and decency for other people. We have been like that all our lives. Most read in Fabulous "But people look down on us like we have just come from Mars. "We are rough and ready, but any one of you can have bread and cheese with us - we are human. Gypsy Rose Blanchard reveals reason behind 25lb weight loss as she flaunts slim waist after giving birth "People who put their noses up at us, all I say is: come and find out who we are. We just try and keep ourselves to ourselves. "They give us a bad name until they get to know us, then they realise we are not like they think we are. "People are frightened by the myth. We've just got a bad name." Despite settling down at the Kent site, Oldy - who admits never having been to school in his life - says the family will continue their Romani Gypsy traditions that have been around for centuries. 17 The family has made a permanent home in the area Credit: SWNS 17 This is the first time the family have been granted permission to stay permanently at a site Credit: SWNS MARRIAGE TRADITIONS He explained that marriages and funerals are the big calendar occasions, as well as Christmas . The jumping of the broomstick, where newly married couples go hand-in-hand over a brush, is a wedding tradition that lives on. And despite mostly keeping it in the Romani Gypsy community, there's no rules against marrying outsiders. "We try to marry in the Roma community, but you don't have to," Oldy said. If you tried to grab a Gypsy girl at a wedding, you would get a punch: that's disrespecting that woman Oldy Herring "Once [outsiders] are in, they often don't want to leave. "Once you are married, you are married for life. And the girls go and live with their husbands and their families." "Girls have got to be kept pure until they are married," Oldy's wife, Tina, added. "Everyone travels to be together for weddings and funerals. Everyone will come from miles around." 17 The family explained that Romani Gypsy culture revolves around family, respect for elders, religion, storytelling, animals, cleanliness, charity and community Credit: SWNS TV BACKLASH However, Oldy says shows such as My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding have peddled offensive falsities about some supposed traditions. The controversial act of 'grabbing' seen on the show, where young men throw women over their shoulders to force a kiss, is one myth Oldy wanted to bust. "We don't believe in that; that's just something the young boys started doing," he said. "That Big Gypsy Weddings show… It's a load of nonsense. That brought on the misconceptions - it's all put on. 17 The family - who live with a whole host of animals - recently won the right to permanently stay at the former park Credit: SWNS 17 Some of the caravans have awning extensions of them Credit: SWNS "If you tried to grab a Gypsy girl at a wedding, you would get a punch: that's disrespecting that woman." "Lots of things were wrong on that show," Tina agreed. "Religion is a big part of our culture. Everybody believes in the Lord and bringing kids up with Christian values." Tina added that charity was also a big part of the culture. "Because we know what it's like to not have any bread in you, or not to have a roof over your head," Oldy rejoined. "If we see someone who needs help, we help them. We can't understand why people don't do the same for us." 17 Children playing on the traveller site Credit: SWNS KEEPING CLEAN Keeping a clean home is also essential to their way of life, with Tina crediting it for helping to stop the spread of diseases in their community. "We like a bottle of bleach and always have done," she said. "A lot of people only use bleach in their toilets, but we use it everywhere. "We've got funny beliefs and strict rules." Another of these beliefs, Tina explained, is that toilets and showers inside their caravans are never used, saying: "Never in a million years do you use the toilet or shower in your caravan. "It's too close to your sink." 17 The family continue Romani Gypsy traditions that have been around for centuries Credit: SWNS Instead they use publicly available shower blocks and toilets, or facilities in gyms and pubs . Oldy adds that he would pray their next site would be clean when he was a young boy, as it was always his job to clear it. "And people have the cheek to say, 'Dirty, stinking gypsies'," he said. Once you are married, you are married for life. And the girls go and live with their husbands and their families Oldy Herring Tina also revealed a lesser-known tradition after the passing of loved ones in the Romani Gypsy community, saying: "When you die, if there's no one to live in your caravan, the caravan gets burned." Animals and storytelling also play big roles in Romani Gypsy life. "Because we couldn't read or write, we told stories," Oldy said. "Animals are a big part of our lives; the country is our lives, and we love the country." 17 Toilets and showers inside their caravans are never used Credit: SWNS DISHING UP Food, as in most cultures, also plays a huge part in bringing together the family for evening meals. 'Old-fashioned' dishes, like meat puddings and rice puddings, are cooked in centuries-old cast-iron pots that have cooked thousands of meals over the years. The ancient pots hang in an open shed on the family's site, under which a young Jack Russell puppy barks below a framed photo of the Tina explained that the pots - always heated over dead wood, which 'doesn't smoke' - lock the taste and smell of the food cooked in them. 17 Oldy says shows such as My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding have peddled offensive falsities about some supposed traditions Credit: SWNS "Meat's a big part of our diet," Tina said. "I have never met a vegetarian gypsy in my life." Despite a reputation for violence and bare-knuckle boxing , Oldy claims that the majority of the time, disputes are settled with words rather than fists. Their Christian values also encourage them to help out others in need, such as motorists who've broken down near their site. Tina also recalled stepping in during the beating of a young girl, who she took in and cleaned up after intervening. This is the first time the family have been granted permission to stay permanently at a site, meaning their children can continue studying at local schools . 17 The family recalls horrific instances of racism against their people in decades gone by Credit: SWNS "All we want is somewhere to stop," Oldy continued. "We keep it clean and tidy and nobody has complained about us. "We went to the courts and won our case. We are a quiet family and we are willing to pay our way. We pay to stay here, for the bins and the toilets. "Our children love the school here. I have never been to school in my life. It's not because we're stupid, it's because we've not had a place to call home. "The kids ask with their homework, 'Is this right?' and I say, 'You tell me!'. "I am trying to bring my children up the best way I can. "There's a lot of people who think travelling is a good way of life. "You've got to be born with this and it goes through generations. "I am so proud of being a gypsy. There's good and bad, but they all paint us with the same brush." 17 The family is now content to stay at the Wigmore Coach Park site Credit: SWNS 17 Keeping a clean home is also essential to their way of life, Credit: SWNS LONG-TERM HOME Having spent their lives up until now constantly on the move, only looking for a new site 'once we got bored', the family is now content to stay at the Wigmore Coach Park site, saying it's become more and more difficult to keep moving. Oldy said the kids are 'over the moon' at being able to have birthday parties, which they were reluctant to have whilst moving around for fear of being moved on - with Tina saying they were once moved on three times one Christmas Eve. The family recalls horrific instances of racism against their people in decades gone by, with Oldy claiming a police officer once told him: "Hitler had the right idea with you; they should've shot you all." 17 The family insist they are trying to bring up their children in the best way they can Credit: SWNS Other horror stories include burning tyres being rolled under caravans in which children slept and having pesticide purposefully sprayed on them and their belongings. Tina also recounts children's nursery rhymes warning against 'playing with Gypsies', saying this added fuel to the fire of people's perception of them. Cllr Satinder Shokar, of Medway Council, who has supported the families at the Wigmore Coach Park site 'from day one', says he's personally seen evidence of racism against the families from the authorities. "What I realised as a councillor was that the racism within organisations is institutionalised racism," he said. "There's not anywhere we didn't encounter it. We felt it important that their voices were heard. "[Being granted permanent residence at the Wigmore site] is another key victory for these families, offering further hope after years of repeated planning refusals. 17 Family life has a big focus on animals Credit: SWNS "With over 90 per cent of applications refused nationwide , until these figures change, the long-term trend of cultural apartheid against the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community will persist." It was revealed recently that cash-strapped Medway Council spent as much as £100,000 in taxpayer money on court fees fighting against the family's right to remain at the site. Oldy says he doesn't blame outsiders for their misinformed, stereotypical perception of his people. A closer look at gypsy traditions HERE we take a look at some of the traditions many gypsies follow... Family-Centric Living : The family is the cornerstone of Romani life, with extended families often living close to one another. Elders are highly respected and play a crucial role in decision-making and maintaining cultural traditions. Nomadic Heritage : Many Gypsy communities maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally to find work or attend cultural gatherings. This tradition is deeply rooted in their history and identity. Distinctive Décor : Romani homes, whether they are caravans or fixed abodes, are often brightly decorated with vibrant colours and intricate patterns. These decorations reflect their rich cultural heritage and love for beauty. Communal Gatherings : Social gatherings are a significant part of Gypsy life. Celebrations, such as weddings and religious festivals, are grand affairs involving music, dance, and feasting, often stretching over several days. Spiritual Practices : Many Gypsy families incorporate a blend of Christian beliefs and traditional spiritual practices. Homes may feature religious icons and amulets believed to offer protection and bring good fortune. Craftsmanship and Artistry : Romani people are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in metalwork, woodwork, and textiles. These skills are often passed down through generations and are a source of both pride and livelihood. Hospitality : Hospitality is a valued tradition. Guests are treated with great respect and generosity, often being offered the best food and drink available as a sign of honour and goodwill. Sharing Stories : Storytelling is a vital part of Romani culture, preserving history, morals, and lessons through generations. Elders often share tales that are both entertaining and educational. He says those who give his people a bad name, leaving trails of rubbish behind them after festivals and gatherings, often aren't even Gypsies but just 'like the way of life' and are 'lost'. Oldy said the same could also be said of many of those outside the Gypsy community, saying: "There's no respect. "I think they've just lost their way, but there's nothing wrong with them. "Respect for the elders is a big thing for us: respect your parents and grandparents. "We don't believe in letting our children go. That's our job, from the moment I got my eldest son. "Our way of life is coming to an end. But we don't want our tradition and culture to end. "We are holding our hands up and saying, 'We want to stay here'. "This is paradise for us. Just stopping here... It's like winning the lottery. "They are realising we are human beings." "We are comfortable here," Tina agreed. "We are starting to be accepted."
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Traveller family WIN right to stay at car park after it is ruled their human rights were breached when council turfed them out - but they say it's not enough
A family of travellers who have won a landmark case to stay at a car park have insisted they will 'never stop fighting' for permanent residency. The group, comprising of 15 adults and 14 children, first arrived at the former park-and-ride site in July 2023, setting up home at the Wigmore Coach Park, just off the M2. Medway Council, based in Kent, had initially granted them permission to stay at the site for three months if they paid a monthly fee and stuck to a number of rules. However, in October last year, the local authority handed the Romani Gypsy family an eviction notice, stating that they had planned to sell the land, previously a park and ride used for those commuting to London, in the near future. Now, a judge has made the milestone judgement that the authority wrongly interfered with the group's human rights by attempting to turf them out, having heard that no steps were taken to sell the site. Speaking to MailOnline about the milestone case, described by one involved solicitor as the first of its kind in a decade, Julie White, who lives at the site, said: 'We're over the moon with the initial decision, it's like winning the lottery. To have somebody on our side that is willing to help us has been absolutely amazing.' However, much to the family's fury, the significant decision means that while the travellers can remain on the site for now, they still do not hold the permanent rights to stay at the car park. While an initial planning application was submitted last May, it was refused just two months later. An appeal against the refusal set to take place next Wednesday, with the family anxiously awaiting the verdict. Oldy Herring, 67, the eldest member of the family, described the battle with Medway Council as the 'fight of our lives'. He added: 'There's nowhere else we can go. If this place is not fit for us, then where is fit enough? 'We've been all over Kent. We've been pushed from pillar to post all of our lives, this is the only thing we have been given in our lives. 'People don't understand our lives or our culture. We don't cause any harm to anybody, we just want a home. We are literally begging for help.' The family said that the rules placed on them by the council when they first arrived at the site included 'no anti-social behaviour', 'no work', 'no complaints' and that they had 'to keep the place tidy'. They insisted that all of these rules have been 'strictly' followed and that the council has 'no good reason' for kicking them out. Relying on generators for electricity and water, the travellers currently pay £33 a month to the council for the bins and animals on the land. Now, as they fight for permanent residence, the family have indicated that the council's refusal to grant the planning application is bound to have 'worrying' impacts on their children's mental health. And, with no fixed place to stay, members of the group have no postcode and therefore have limited access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Marie Conde, who lives on the site alongside her husband and children, said: 'I do worry about the kids, moving them out of school would be awful for them. They have finally been accepted and been able to make friends, they're getting an education which is so important. 'It's the first time they've felt truly settled and accepted, how can they take that from them? 'We are decent people and a close family that deserve to be together. We just want to make this our permanent home and a place for our children and grandchildren, the next generation.' Speaking about the landmark case, described by one solicitor as the first of its kind in a decade, Julie White (pictured), who lives at the site, said: 'We're over the moon with the decision, it's like winning the lottery' Meanwhile, Tina Herring, 17, who spent the majority of her young childhood on the road, described the car park as 'the closest it's got to feeling like home'. The teenager added: 'Being here has made me feel so much more settled and safe, rather than being on the road all of the time. 'Not knowing what's going to happen next is so stressful for all of us, but especially on the younger kids.' While the family celebrated the decision as a 'turning point' and anxiously await the results of next Wednesday, Medway Council, however, said that it was deciding 'how best to move forward' - describing the judge's verdict as 'disappointing'. Cllr Louwella Prenter, Medway Council's Portfolio Holder for Housing and Homelessness, said: 'We are disappointed with the county court judgement not to grant possession of the former Wigmore commuter car park in Maidstone Road, back to Medway Council. Previous investigations have shown that many local authorities in Kent are still failing to meet the accommodation needs of the travelling community, despite it being a legal requirement 'This is a lengthy and detailed decision, and we will give it due consideration before deciding how best to move forward. 'Granting use of the site was only ever intended as a temporary three-month measure, and the car park is not deemed to be suitable as a long-term site for permanent occupation.' Previous investigations have shown that many local authorities in Kent are still failing to meet the accommodation needs of the travelling community, despite it being a legal requirement. After legislation was introduced allowing local authorities to evict, fine or arrest travellers setting up unauthorised encampments, they are often left being moved from roadside to roadside. In 2021, there were 5,405 people across Kent who identified as a Gypsy or Irish Traveller, representing up to 0.3 per cent of the population, according to the ONS. Meanwhile, an additional 2,225 people identified as Roma, amounting to 0.1 per cent of the population, with many of these individuals housed on traveller sites.
Sunday World
25-04-2025
- Sunday World
Police watchdog to probe ‘heavy-handed' treatment and profiling of Irish Traveller children
It comes following an incident whereby they were allegedly forced back onto trains and prohibited from attending a Christmas market A police watchdog is set to launch a probe into the alleged heavy-handed treatment, and racial profiling of Irish Traveller children. It comes after a number of Romani Gypsy and Irish Traveller youths were prohibited from attending a Christmas market in Manchester. It's alleged that Greater Manchester Police (GMP) forced them back onto trains as they arrived at Manchester Victoria on November 23 of last year. A dispersal order was issued on the day after police said 'intelligence' had been received about anti-social behaviour on trains. A spokesperson for the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed that the watchdog has received a request to review the incident and the cop's handling of the complaint. The Traveller Movement has asked for the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to review the case, saying the police response to their complaint. Yvonne MacNamara, Chief Executive Officer, said the children involved had been "humiliated, manhandled and denied basic respect and safeguarding.' The charity allege that children were separated from their families, subjected to abuse and remarks about their ethnicity, and forced onto trains going to unknown destinations. Police reps met with The Traveller Movement to address their concerns following the incident. "This forum was open and constructive," a spokesperson for the GMP said, adding that they looked 'forward to working more closely with community representatives going forward.' Assistant Chief Constable for the GMP, Rick Jackson, expressed "regret at the distress caused" by the incident, and added that the use of police powers were "not taken lightly" and 'used with a great deal of consideration.' "Our clients are hopeful that an IOPC review will expose what they believe is the clear institutional racism that led to this appalling incident,' a legal representative for The Traveller Movement said.
