WHITLEY has extended an outpouring of love following the death of a respected member of its community.
Charles Langham died at the age of 87 on Monday, August 1, after a “fulfilling and happy” life.
Mr Langham was the long-time owner of a butcher’s shop at 439 Basingstoke Road, and was well-known within the ward.
Over 150 people commented on a tribute posted on Whitley Community Museum’s social media page. These messages were passed on to the Langham family.
One commenter said: “One of the nicest, friendly, caring guys I knew. So many fond memories growing up with Charlie around, especially after school [when] he would let us make sausages and take them home. Fly high Charlie.”
A former neighbour reminisced: “Charlie was a wonderful neighbour for 21 years. He’d often leave goodies from his allotment on our doorstep. He will be greatly missed by everyone.”
Another person said: “Fabulous guy and boss to have. [Gave me] my first job during and after finishing school. Taught me well and had a few chuckles on the way. RIP Charlie.”
David Turner, curator of the museum and long-time friend of Mr Langham’s, said: “Charlie enjoyed a happy and fulfilling life serving Whitley families over many decades from his butcher’s shop on the Basingstoke Road opposite Gillettes.
“Charlie knew his customers by name and always asked after their families. He remembered your eating habits and always made the right suggestions for portion sizes. His banter also included cooking instructions!
“It was a very sad day when Charlie decided to retire. No fuss, just a note on the door addressed to his customers stating the shop was now closed due to retirement.
“No one saw [his retirement] coming, I remember being in the paper shop next door on the Saturday of closure. The shop was busier than normal as customers of Charlie met to discuss and reminisce after reading the note on the door. Many stories were shared that morning, an emotional morning.
“Although disappointed at the shop closure it was a unanimous opinion that Charlie should enjoy his retirement.
The Whitley Community Museum plays an important role in preserving the history of the ward, a place where residents past and present can access and submit archived photos.
Mr Turner is sure the institution will see Mr Langham’s legacy continue.
“It is a fact that when any photograph is posted on the Whitley Community Museum Facebook page, it has a huge response. The museum has many photographs and related stories in the archive collection so for sure Charlie Langham the Butcher will always be remembered.”
