London Ice Cream Seller Faces Heatwave Challenges

Gus Bodur, known as Gussy the Ice Cream Man in north-west London, says recent heatwaves present difficulties for ice cream vendors despite increased demand. While hot weather is essential for business, the extreme temperatures make working inside the ice cream van intensely hot for both Gus and his family.

The Bodur family has been selling ice cream in London since the late 1950s, starting with a fruit and ice cream stall in Piccadilly Circus. Now a three-generation business, they operate vans and a parlour in Brent Cross Town, with plans to expand into supermarkets.

Gus’s children and son-in-law are actively involved, driven by a desire to build upon their father and grandfather’s legacy. Despite the challenges of increasingly intense heat, which Gus compares to the 1976 heatwave but finds more sustained, the family remains committed to serving the community and keeping spirits high. A Mr Whippy with a Flake and red sauce remains the most popular order.