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Born in Clarendon, Jamaica on the 27th January 1921, Norman Mitchell was the youngest of 11 children. He was only 14 when his father died but he readily took on the responsibility to care for his mother. As a young man he was popular with family, neighbours and the community. Norman could always be called upon to add his special brand of humour and wit to festive occasions.

At an early age he took up preaching and toured several parishes in Jamaica developing his ministerial skills under trying conditions. In 1955 he came to Britain and soon moved into a house in Harlesden where he has lived for the past 40 years. In 1960 he joined the St. Johns Ambulance Brigade and served with this organisation for the next 12 years (one of the first black people to appointed). This job was well suited to his unique inter-personal skills. He would often be called upon to attend high-profile public events where he could be depended on to deal with emergencies in a sensitive and humane manner.

the following years Norman pursued a variety of occupations before he was once more employed in a job involving caring. His bright smile got him a position with Crossroads Care, an organisation offering home-help to the needy.

After leaving Crossroads Norman continued his service to the elderly and the house-bound, often doubling up as a minister in local and regional Churches. In 1980 he was inspired to start from his front room the West Indian Senior Citizens organisation (WISCO) a support group and network for black elders in Brent and North West London who met regularly to do craft-work, reading, have lunches, concerts and other social activities. In 1982 WISCO established its current base at St Marks Church, All Souls Avenue, London NW10.

WISCO has now become a prototype for similar self help initiatives in the community and based in churches halls and community centres around the country from. WISCO Norman feels proud of this achievement as a founder and Chairman in its sustainability and duration of the organisation without revenue support from statutory bodies (any donations or support would be generously welcomed by Norman). At 82 he still drives the mini bus and pick up members and supervises the luncheon club with volunteers.

May 2002 was a very special year for WISCO. It organised a memorial service for all the members who had passed away over the last twenty two years.

The following words were read to recognise the loss of members who were friends,brothers,sisters and cousins etc

We Remember You

In the rising of the sun and in its going down
In the blowing of wind and in the chill of winter
In the opening of buds and in the rebirth of spring
In the blueness of the sky and in the warmth of summer
In the rustling of leaves and in the beauty of Autumn
In the beginning of the year and when it ends
When we are weary and in need of strength
When we are lost and sick at heart
When we have joys we yearn to share
Yes we remember you.
So long as we live, Past members too shall live,
For they are a part of all who have known them.


	Empowering and influencing the black community through history, family genealogy and heritage. Supported by the Musician Ronnie Laws