Ziggy Bids A Sad Farewell To Street of Chiswick

'Racially motivated attacks' left popular street sweeper fearful for his life

He was Chiswick's most unlikely hero but his dancing feet, bright smile and friendly nature brought him fame beyond his modest expectations. However, sadly it was because of his fame that Ziggy Dust had to leave the country.

He told ChiswickW4.com forum that he left 'without choice' because someone wanted to kill him. He has told friends that he had been beaten up and threatened by a 'faction of the National Front' and that he didn't think the police could help him.

One friend of his said, "Ziggy was disciplined about his dancing. A really decent, hardworking guy. Also a talented artist and I was talking to him about exhibiting his photographs in the Black Sheep Gallery or the Crown and Anchor. Most residents appreciated the joy he bought to Chiswick. Ziggy we wish you well!"

A spokesperson for the local police said that Ziggy had not been in touch with them and that they would always treat allegations of this nature very seriously. They would also be very interested in any information about criminal activities by far right organisations in the area.

Video clips of Ziggy's dancing made it onto YouTube and profiles on the street cleaner were published in The Sun, The Telegraph and Evening Standard, but he always managed to keep his feet firmly on the ground, finding time to correspond with locals on the forum.

Ziggy, who came to London from Torun three years ago, explained how he loved to dance whilst he is working "because it makes if more fun."

“I am used to performing and I get a great reaction from people in Chiswick. Mothers stop with their children and dance with me and one old lady phoned the council to say she wanted to take me for a cup of tea on my break. It is not the most interesting of jobs but I am very happy doing it as I make other people happy and have made lots of friends."

Today a sad Ziggy wished Chiswick well. "I miss Chiswick, I left without choice. All the best, Zig."

January 29, 2009