Following the death of his mother and the incapacity of his father, when Stanley was just eight years old he found himself in a Boy’s Industrial Home in Lewisham, south London. He suffered under its very harsh regime and was removed to the Training Ship Exmouth.
Although there was discipline, it wasn’t harsh and the boys were taught skills which would fit them for their future lives. Stanley thrived and was able to develop his music skills and make music his career.