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A Right Royal East End Knees Up

By admin

May 05, 2011

NORTON FOLGATE: The wenches, libertines and rascals of old Norton Folgate enjoyed a right-old royal knees-up to celebrate the wedding of Prince William of Wales with Miss Catherine Middleton in a day of “Victorian debauchery” on Folgate Street, E1. Rumours are circulating that the Libertines, ever proud of their heritage, made an important announcement concerning their constitutional status within the United Kingdom! The celebrations included “Jack the Clippers” theatrical wet-shaves (for women), novelty drinks, pearly kings and queens, fantasy royal wedding portraits, women on stilts and other appropriate activities all coordinated by the Water Poet pub. The Liberty of Norton Folgate existed as a self-governing area in the streets north of Spitalfields Market between Bishopsgate and Commercial Street from ancient times until October 1901 when it became part (or did it?) of the Borough of Stepney, later superseded by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. The street party began at 11am on Friday and went on till late. SPITALFIELDS: Esteemed London folk musicians Chas & Dave made a surprise appearance at the Golden Heart on Commercial Street, E1. Free fish and chips were served as the duo royally entertained the crowds who had gathered there last Friday to celebrate the royal wedding. Later on Sandra, the celebrated land lady, led the dancing at the street party outside. Many local faces were in attendance and a good time was had by all.