'Margaret Thatcher Once Came To My Club!'

Iconic nightclub owner Peter Stringfellow chats to Now about finally finding love with wife Bella – and how he even changes nappies now.

- Sarah Robertson

On meeting the legend and gentleman that is Peter Stringfellow, the first thing that stands out, aside from his twinkly eyes and warm smile, is that he’s not wearing any leopard print. In fact, there’s none anywhere at his Stringfellows nightclub, which is where we meet to talk about his new line of lingerie. ‘My wife’s banned it,’ he laughs.

His dyed-blond mullet has been replaced by his natural white colour, too. But despite being 76, Peter buzzes with the energy of a man half his age. No subject is off limits and once you get him chatting there’s no stopping him. Thirty minutes turns into three hours as he talks about everything, including how he found happiness with his wife Bella, 34, with whom he has two children. And, of course, there’s time for Now to take a twirl on the famous Stringfellows pole…

Hi Peter, tell us about your new lingerie line…

Stringfellows is the most famous gentleman’s club in the world, so lingerie is a natural step for me. I understand what women like when it comes to underwear and you get a good idea of what men like too. My line is a Victoria’s Secret style of lingerie – not threatening, and very beautiful. And there’s a second range called After Midnight, which is more erotic.

Do you ever buy underwear for your wife Bella?

For Valentine’s I bought her couple of fabulous outfits. My wife’s 34 – she’s an ex-ballerina with the Royal Ballet, she’s given me two beautiful kids and she’s drop dead gorgeous. Of course, I happen to be incredibly handsome! And as you’ve probably noticed, I’ve got the perfect physique [pats his tummy]. Some people have six-packs – I’ve got one big one.

You’re a silver fox, Peter…