Neighbourhood Nostalgia: Stratford Stories

You can't beat a great story. Whether it's full of intrigue, tugs at the heartstrings, or makes your cheeks hurt from laughing, a story has the power to stay with you forever.

In the spirit of stories, we're collecting memories of living and working in Stratford, from everyday moments to big milestones. Here are some of our favourites we've heard so far.

As told by a coffee shop customer:

"What's a memory that encapsulates Stratford? Oh, that's quite a tough one actually. I remember, and this is a genuine story, I remember losing my bank card in Stratford. And I remember really panicking, thinking, 'Oh god, if someone's going to tap it any second, any second.' And, this guy was standing outside of the mall just shouting, 'Whose bank card is this?!' For about five minutes, before I even put two and two together and was like, 'Oh my god, that is my bank card.' So, I've gone over, and the guy's handed me back my wallet, everything inside of it. And in all honesty, in most places in London, I wouldn't expect to see that again. But the gentleman was really nice and he actually took me for a coffee afterwards. Shout out Kevin!"

As told by Amy, bubbleologist and stilt walker:

"My first professional show, I would have been about 18. I did a summer season, and the dancing was lovely, very glamorous, but I was also a magician's assistant. And in that season, the shows were all brilliant. I loved learning how to deal with all the magician's assistant stuff and getting all the secrets. But there was one show in the season where I did mess up…and may have given some stuff away!"

As told by one of the team members at Everyman Cinema:

"So, I've lived in Stratford for the last six years… What's my fondest memory of Stratford? Since I lived here? Because I came in 2012, and my memory was the Olympic Games. I was there for three-four days because, basically, I'm part of the – you know the fire that comes from Greece? – I'm part of the ceremony, so I had to do that and then come here. So, the first time of doing it here, it was the first time I saw, first of all, London, and then Stratford. I don't want to say how old I was, but yeah…2012."

Stratford tells a tale of transformation. What emerged in the 19th century as East London's industrial hub became deindustrialised in the 20^th century, and the home of a diverse creative community instead. Then, the 2012 Olympics changed everything. Significant investment and regeneration came to Stratford, with new venues, green spaces, accommodation, transport links and leisure facilities revitalising the area.

Today, Stratford continues to build on its Olympic legacy, not only as a sports destination, but also as a cultural powerhouse and a hub for education and business innovation. All of this makes it the place to be in East London – and the vibrant setting for many stories yet to be written.

Do you have a Stratford story to tell? Head to our Instagram to join in the conversation and share your memories with us.