Sometimes while out reporting you meet the most remarkable people. Grenville Squires is not just notable because of his name, for 28 years he was the caretaker of Park Hill, Sheffield's (in)famous council estate that towers over the city. Anyone who's ever taken the train to Sheffield can't have missed the huge buildings of flats at the top of the hill. They were built in 1957 and are Europe's largest listed buildings.I went to interview Grenville at his home about plans to build a hotel at Park Hill as part of its redevelopment. Incidentally he's in favour of the idea as long as it helped the estate survive into the future, but it was when I was about to walk out of his front door that my ears were really thrilled. He told me a fascinating tale from his time as caretaker there and moments later was repeating it for me to record on my phone. Grenville then went on to tell me another cracking story.
Please be aware that the stories are a bit morbidly disturbing so if you're of a sensitive disposition, you may wish not to click play...
These stories are absolutely brilliant mate. I bet they're just the tip of the iceberg that he's seen too!
ReplyDeleteI read your article in December but have only just listened to the commentary!
ReplyDeleteAs your last commentator wrote - I bet Grenville could give a host of interesting tales. Why not interview him again?
My first question would be - How did you get your name?