The Pearly King of Wandsworth has hung up his buttons for the last time after decades of service to the borough.
Edward Larkin, 90, retired last week having raised more £150,000 for charity over the past 30 years.
In a last act of goodwill, Mr Larkin - or “Ted”, as he is known - spent Valentine’s Day handing out roses to lady pensioners in Garratt Lane.
The Mapleton Road resident had three children with his late wife Hazel, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
His fundraising-missions included a record-breaking 90-hour accordion-playing session at the Elephant & Castle shopping centre in 1981.
One of his last ventures was visiting Westminster Abbey on Armistice Day last year, where he was snapped by Putney-based photographer, Chris Wiles.
He said: “I must admit I didn’t know Wandsworth had a Pearly King until then but it is sad he is retiring and I wish him well and hope he enjoys himself.”
To see more of Chris’ photos visit flickr.com/photos/chrisww/.
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