01 Apr 2026
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Theresa Kennedy, owner of Up We Pop in The Maltings Shopping Centre and the most-recent Champion in the St Albans Retailer of the Year Awards.
Who was your first best friend?
I have been very privileged to have had my best friend in my life for 64 years (believe it or not!). Our parents were next door neighbours and we were born three weeks apart in the early sixties. We have shared many great times together, from; being bridesmaids, godmothers, being holiday partners and much more.
If you could have a conversation with someone who had died who would it be?
My father. He inspired me, taught me everything I knew and was my best friend.
Were you well behaved at school?
A Jekyll and Hyde story. In primary school, I was head girl and the apple of my teachers’ eyes. Well, in secondary school, that all changed.
Have you ever had a nickname?
My nickname at school was ‘Bambi’. The reason being, I had the skinniest legs in the netball team.
What was your first job?
I was employed by Harrods at the age of 16 as a Saturday retail assistant. I worked my way up to fashion buyer and stayed there for 20 great years.
Who is your favourite St Albans musician or band?
Sinead Quinn and Pat and the Butchers, I love going to their gigs in St Albans.
What’s your favourite St Albans car park?
Well it has to be The Maltings car park. The attendants are so helpful and accommodating.
Which day of your life would you most like to relive?
There are two days. The births of both my children, Oliver (1998) and Harry (2000).
What’s your favourite St Albans pub?
It must be The Boot and my little Lhasapoo Woody enjoys sitting outside on a summer’s evening.
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Much too many, but at the moment I can only wear half of them as my left leg in currently in plaster.
