Marker for the location of Channel 4's groundbreaking sitcom

The building used as the exterior of Desmond’s is set to get a blue plaque to mark its place in black cultural history.

Fans of the groundbreaking Channel 4 sitcom are close to hitting the £4,000 crowdfunding target needed to install the commemorative marker on the outside of 204 Bellenden Road in Peckham.

Now a residential home, the building was used for outside shots of the barber’s shop at the centre of the landmark comedy, which ran from 1989 to 1994.

The campaign has been spearheaded by fan Aron Shabir – with the blessing of Desmond’s creator Trix Worrell.

Shabir told Chortle: ‘Desmond’s is a show that means a great deal to me personally. My dad first introduced me to it, and after watching the series I naturally started researching more about its history. That’s how I came across 204 Bellenden Road.

‘I felt that such an important part of British television and black British cultural history deserved permanent recognition, and that’s where the idea for the plaque came from. It’s been incredible to see how many people still have so much love for the show and want to help preserve its history.’

He is hoping to unveil the plaque October 31, which would have been the 92nd birthday of Desmond’s star Norman Beaton, while also marking the end of Black History Month.

The memorial will be provided by the Nubian Jak Community Trust, which has a series of black plaques around London to highlight the achievements of the black community – however this one will be blue, mimicking the official English Heritage plaques.

The organisation will also next week unveil the world's biggest blue plaque, at Westbourne Park Station, honouring 70 pioneers who helped shape the Notting Hill Carnival.

The crowdfunding campaign for 204 Bellenden Road is currently within £800 of its target – which will be added to the £1,000 pledged by the property’s current landlord.

Shabir  said: ‘If Desmond’s has ever made you laugh, brought back memories, or helped shape your appreciation of British television, I’d be incredibly grateful for your support.’

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Published: 25 Sep 2026