One of the most popular sights in London, especially around the Chelsea area, are the Chelsea Pensioners in their bright red uniforms and tricorn hats. It's always a pleasure to see them. The Pensioners are all OAP British War Veterans.
They live at The Royal Chelsea Hospital, but wander around The Kings Road like the rest of us.
I worked in Chelsea, and lived for a while in Bramerton Street, just off the Kings Road, where the pensioners were a regular sight. One would always greet them when they passed by, and if they came into a Pub' where one was drinking, it was traditional to buy them their pints; which I did on several occasions.
It was accepted that they would only have one free pint, so they would move-on to another Pub' and have another free one there. Their thirsts were endless, and they took full advantage.
So, if you should meet one in a London Pub'; buy him a pint. He'll appreciate it.
I wonder if I can acquire a Chelsea Pensioner's outfit and a walking stick for the next time I am down in London. The idea of several free pints is most appealing. I will say that I was a sapper though I have no idea what one of them is or was.
ReplyDeleteYou'd have to look old, and groan a lot. I know what Supper is, and I know what a Sipper does, but not too sure about a Sapper. Do they dig outdoor 'Thunderboxes' maybe?
DeleteFine old English traditions.
ReplyDeleteI've just been watching some of them on TV at The Chelsea Flower Show. They were singing Beatles songs!
DeleteI've heard of the Chelsea Pensioners but never saw them. A wonderful English tradition
ReplyDeleteThey are a very pleasant part of life in Chelsea.
DeleteThe red uniform is pretty snazzy. I've never seen a "Chelsea Pensioner" in a British pub.
ReplyDeleteAre they all war heroes to qualify for this honor?
They were certainly all serving soldiers; not sure if they were 'heroes'. I'm not sure what the requirements are for them to become Chelsea Pensioners.
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