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>> >> Oh yes....without a shadow of a doubt.
>>
>> Where though, and I don't men odd collections of streets in areas long inhabited by
>> immigrants.
I lived for 20 years in the same house in the London Borough of Barnet, at one edge of it, near the border with the London Boroughs of Enfield and Haringey.
Then, 18 years ago when I got divorced I became a regular of a local pub in East Barnet (a***nal and occasional Tottenham pub) and soon became mates with a load of tradesmen, builders, lads from the water board and a couple of businessmen, etc.
My observation is based on my own experiences (both as a resident and for the last 6 years, policing that area as well) and comment/observations from those around me, who could see change in their environment and didn't necessarily like it.
The locals were gradually moving further out to Hertfordshire, Potters Bar was one destination. Some went to Essex. The ex-pats would occasionally come back for a pint in their old local.
My old neighbour was another good reference point, he'd lived in his house for over 45 years.
Another good source was the main local newsagent about 500 yards away, Mr Patel, he who works every hour that there is and will proudly show anyone that shows interest pictures of his three daughters, all of whom went to Uni and got good professional jobs. I've had many a chin wag with him at 0600 when grabbing my paper after a night shift.
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