Hotspur Hero – Steve Hayden

Tue 16 June 2020, 16:18|Tottenham Hotspur

Our latest Hotspur Hero is Tottenham local Steve Hayden, who has been delivering milk to London households for over 40 years.

Described in his nomination as “a true community servant who looks out for the vulnerable,” the coronavirus pandemic has not stopped Steve from getting up at 2am, six days a week to serve some 600 customers across the capital.

“It has been extremely busy but I’m thankful that I’ve been able to work,” he told us.

“I think we’re a lifeline for some people at the moment. Because we carry groceries as well as milk, we can deliver other supplies to those who may be self-isolating – particularly the elderly. I’ll even go and run errands for them if needed so they don’t have to go out.”

Faced with long days at work and being away from his family, it is the community spirit that keeps the popular milkman going.

He said: “The aim is to help and interact with people as much as possible. Even though customers aren’t able to come out and have a chat like they normally would, I’ll still wave through the window to say hello and let them know I’m there.

“A lot of them have been asking if they can do anything to help me or give me a hand – they’ve even left out treats just to show their appreciation!”

For Steve, getting to know his customers often involves finding out which football team they support and whether they share his passion for Spurs.

He smiled: “Whenever there’s a big game on I’ll decorate the float and wear my colours. It always creates some banter and laughter and that brings people together.

“My family have always been in Tottenham, going back years and years. It’s the only Club for us, put it that way. My kids all support Spurs and their kids support Spurs... it’s going to go on for generations.”

My family have always been in Tottenham, going back years and years. It’s the only Club for us, put it that way.
Steve Hayden

We finished by discussing his pride at being nominated as a Hotspur Hero, as part of our campaign to recognise and champion key workers and individuals who have gone above and beyond during the pandemic.

“It’s like a dream,” Steve said. “Spurs are in my blood and it’s just wonderful to be recognised. A real honour.”