Gin, whisky, vodka, ale, you name it. Time Out names them. From the Queen Mother to Kate Moss, the most devoted London alcohol worshipers…
1.Oliver Reed
Who else? Despite being a relentless and uncontrollable drunk, the Wimbledon-born Reed was one of the most charismatic Englishmen to have lived. The tales of debauchery are endless, from drinking 126 pints in one session to that unforgettable appearance on ‘The Word’…
2.Patsy Stone
Joanna Lumley’s fashion editor in ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ spent most of the ’90s with a glass in her hand. We all remember the Bolly, but let’s not forget the vodka – always Stolly – and the wine (she was once revealed to be living in a storeroom above Oddbins).
3.Euan Blair
This political own-goal came with an assist from the scorer’s son. In June 2000 PM Tony Blair proposed fines for drunks exhibiting ‘offensive and loutish’ behaviour in public. Less than a week later, his 16-year-old son Euan was arrested in Leicester Square while exhibiting offensive and loutish drunken behaviour. He wasn’t charged, but it’s likely the dressing down he got from his father was far worse than any police record.
4.Dr Samuel Johnson
The eighteenth-century poet, essayist and dictionary compiler was not only a great drinker but also a provider of great quotes about drink: ‘Claret is the liquor for boys; port for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy.’ On peach schnapps and lemonade the doctor was notably silent.
5.The Queen Mother
Every day was a royal old piss-up for this pissed-up old royal. A gin and Dubonnet cocktail kicked things off at noon; meals were accompanied by wine and followed by port. ‘Are we at the magic hour?’ she would ask at 6pm: the signal a martini was to be prepared. Given that she kept going till 101, perhaps pickling yourself can guarantee a long and happy life. Bottoms up, ma’am!
AC 