Stanley Leard-Freeman

Stanley Leard-Freeman, former proprietor of Queens Road Music Shop in Watford Town Centre, which he opened in 1958, died on February 23 aged 90.

He was a pillar of the Queens Road business community for over 60 years and well respected by his customers and fellow traders alike.

He closed the shop in June last year when he retired at 89. He was quoted in local paper The Watford Observer, at the time, saying: “The shop itself became the scene of many a debate, game of chess, and even campaign headquarters for concerns close to my heart. Stories of ‘old Watford’ have been told and retold in my shop. It was an important haven for many people as a place to just come, chat and relax.

“Queens Road was my life.”