Gus Bodur, known as Gussy the Ice Cream Man, has voiced the struggles faced by ice cream vendors during the current heatwave in London. As temperatures rise, the challenges of operating an ice cream business intensify, making it a difficult time for many in the industry.
Heatwaves Present Unique Challenges
Despite the common perception that hot weather equates to booming ice cream sales, Gus explains that the reality is more complex. „It’s a bit tricky now because obviously we depend on the hot weather. You can’t have ice cream in the cold and in the rain. But this heatwave has taken it to another level now. I think all ice cream sellers are struggling, and that is the truth,“ he stated.
Operating in the sweltering conditions of an ice cream van, Gus and his children face the dual challenge of keeping cool while managing the equipment that generates additional heat. The machines must work harder to maintain the frozen products, adding to the strain of the situation.
A Family Tradition in Ice Cream
Gus, who has been in the ice cream business for approximately 50 years, reflects on his family’s long-standing tradition in the trade. His father, who emigrated from Cyprus, began selling ice cream from a stall in Piccadilly Circus in the late 1950s. Gus started working alongside his father at the age of 14 during summer breaks, eventually transitioning to an ice cream van that has become a staple in neighborhoods like Golders Green and Hampstead.
„I love what I do. I love meeting people every day. I think it’s the greatest job on the planet,“ Gus remarked, highlighting the joy he finds in his work.
Community Connections and Family Involvement
The family business has now expanded to include three generations, with Gus’s children actively participating. His daughter Chloe operates her own ice cream van, while his son Oliver works both in the van and at the family’s ice cream parlor, which opened in Brent Cross Town in 2022. Son-in-law Jaya contributes by developing recipes and producing ice cream for the business.
„When you hear my dad speak, he’ll always say, ‘I want to leave something behind for my kids,’“ Chloe shared. „But we’ve got this mutual love going back towards him and appreciate the hard work that he’s done so much that we’re now working hard to create a legacy for him, and for my granddad’s hard work as well.“
Gus often encounters adults who fondly remember buying ice cream from him as children, now returning with their own families. He appreciates the community’s support, noting, „The kids are really amazing too. They’re really respectful, they’re not rude at all and they’re very, very polite. Credit to the parents.“
Strategies for Coping with the Heat
To cope with the extreme temperatures, Gus employs various strategies, including wearing a wet flannel on his head and staying hydrated. Interestingly, he also recommends drinking a cup of tea as a way to manage the heat. Reflecting on past heatwaves, he recalled the summer of 1976 but noted that the current conditions are unprecedented. „This time, it’s a different level. Much hotter and more consistent. It’s not one day, it’s one week, it’s two weeks,“ he explained.
As the heatwave continues, Gus remains committed to serving his customers with a smile, stating, „We’re just soldiers and we’re trying to do the best that we can. We drink loads of water and try to serve our ice cream and give everybody a smile.“
Enduring Traditions Amidst Change
While the heatwaves in London may be intensifying, some traditions remain steadfast. Gus confirmed that the classic Mr Whippy with a Flake and red sauce continues to be a favorite among Londoners, showcasing the enduring appeal of this beloved treat.
Quellen: bbc.co.uk
Bildquelle: Pawel Hordjewicz auf Pexels
