Redbridge pays tribute to Sir Jack Petchey

Redbridge Council is paying tribute to East London philanthropist Sir Jack Petchey, who is celebrating his 97th birthday today (Tuesday, 19 July).

Sir Jack Petchey set up the Jack Petchey Foundation in 1999 to inspire young people across London and Essex to work hard and reach their full potential. More than 120 students from Redbridge schools received awards in recognition for their contributions to their community as part of the 2021 Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards.

Sir Jack was born into a working-class family in the East End in 1925, left school at 13 and then joined the Navy in 1943. After leaving the Navy, he began working as a clerk for a solicitor's firm. He applied for management training but was told he would never make it as a businessman.

Instead of giving up, Sir Jack used the £39 he was given from the Navy to buy a second-hand car to start a taxi business. Through hard work, he proved them wrong and built a multi-million-pound empire.

A special tribute honouring Sir Jack Petchey will be given at Full Council this Thursday.

The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Jas Athwal, said: "Sir Jack Petchey is a shining example to us all and shows how far you can go with sheer determination and hard work. Since the launch of his foundation, Sir Jack has supported more than 2,000 initiatives across London and Essex and has invested over £143m.

"Sir Jack is passionate about recognising, valuing and rewarding young people for their achievements and inspiring them to go on to achieve their dreams. On behalf of our Redbridge communities, I wish Sir Jack a very happy birthday."