A Ramsey resident who turned 101 this week has been described by his family as a man who has lived a colourful life, stretching from the Navy to the Blackpool Tower ballroom and decades of work across Manchester, Oldham and the Isle of Man.
Charlie Gregory, born July 20, 1925, grew up as one of eight children. One sister, now 92, is still alive.
Gregory served in the Royal Navy before returning to the north of England, where he became a familiar face around Manchester. His sister lived next door to the Charlton family, and through her he came to know Sir Bobby Charlton well.
He drove coaches for Manchester United, taught ballroom dancing, and even danced at the Blackpool Tower.
He booked artists for nightclubs across Oldham and Manchester, ran stalls on Oldham Market, and owned a manufacturing business on Manchester Road producing trousers and anoraks.
Island Life
After moving to the island, Gregory ran a stall on Douglas Market, opened a curtain shop, and later launched a DIY store in Ramsey, becoming part of the town’s business community for many years.
He was a strong bowler, winning competitions in the UK, the Isle of Man, and Perth, Australia. He also picked up awards for his gardens and remained a keen gardener throughout his life.
