For 47 years, the Thomas More Estate in East Finchley has been home to writer, poet and teacher Dennis Evans.
Dennis moved to the Thomas More Estate following a difficult period in his life after losing his house as a result of a divorce. At the time, he was working full-time.
Over the years, Dennis has written and published poetry, with his work appearing in publications including The Guardian and the Hampstead & Highgate Express. His writing has also been published in the UK and abroad, and he co-founded N2 Poetry Magazine with two writer friends.
Creating connections on the Thomas More Estate
When he first arrived, the estate was still being built. Residents came from different parts of London, including Barnet and Camden.
"We were strangers," Dennis recalled.
However, that soon began to change.
As neighbours settled into their new homes, they shared whatever they had.
"We shared what we had when we were moving in to our new flats and houses: salt, sugar, bread, whatever we had."
Encouraged by the housing officer at the time, residents formed a Residents Association and organised events to bring people together. There was a children's Christmas party, followed by a party for older residents and then one for mums and dads.
"It was a good time!" Dennis said.
A youth club was later formed on the estate. While the clubhouse was eventually lost and there is no Residents Association today, Dennis says the community spirit remains.
"It is a pleasant place to live, and people look out for each other."
For Dennis, having a place to call home has meant security and somewhere to welcome friends and family.
As Southern Housing celebrates 125 years, Dennis's story is a reminder of the communities that grow when people come together and the lasting connections that can be built over time.
Dennis has also shared a poem about his home on the Thomas More Estate which you can read below.
Home
I live in a modern cottage:
two up,
and two down.
I have a garden
that gives me work, a lot of interest,
and occasionally enormous pleasure.
One of my neighbours is a recluse.
I got well with her late mother.
A cheerful woman who laughed a lot.
Other neighbours like to talk.
We’re a mixed bunch.
Postmen, a bouncer, a jazz singer, butcher…
But no candlestick maker!
© Dennis Evans, East Finchley