There is no one more fitting than ‘cheerful’ Charlie Chester, Poetry Laureate of the Grand Order of the Water Rats, to tell the story of music hall’s famous brotherhood, whose work for charity – both in peace and in war – is legendary.
The Order was founded nearly 100 years ago, and the story of its formation is an intriguing one. Why was such a lowly and unloved creature as the water rat chosen as its emblem? And how did a little trotting pony called the Magpie play a part in the creation of the Order? The past Presidents – or King Rats as they are called – form a roll of illustrious names such as Dan Leno, Harry Tate, Will Hay, and Charlie himself, and the fraternity also numbers royalty among it’s members – both Prince Philip and Prince Charles are Companion Rats.
The Grand Order of Water Rats is a walk down memory lane – full of nostalgic and hilarious stories for those who remember the great days of music hall. Together with a varied and unusual selection of photographs, including one of a Prince and seven King’s, this delightfully entertaining book will be a volume to treasure.