A request received from cultural representatives of Commonwealth Countries, past and present, be that while in England, I investigate the true origin of the phrase "cock and bull story".
It is widely reported that this phrase originated in the heart of England, Stony Stratford located on the old Roman road of Watling Street, now the A5.
In the height of the coaching era - the 18th and early 19th centuries - Stony Stratford was an important stopping-off point for mail and passenger coaches travelling between London and the North of England. This coaching history is the source of the supposed origin of the phrase 'cock and bull story'.
The Cock and the Bull were two of the main coaching inns in the town and the banter and rivalry between groups of travellers is said to have resulted in exaggerated and fanciful stories, which became known as 'cock and bull stories'. The two hostelries did, and still do, exist.
In light of this I shall be travelling to Stony Stratford this weekend to investigate,not wishing to appear as a struggling South African wannabe Sherlock Holmes of no means, I am appealing for donations to hire a Limousine with a well stocked cooler box and some funds to purchase fine English beers in order to get patrons at these venues loosening their tongues to assist in my investigation.
My banking details will be supplied on request.
Follow this space for the truth finally being exposed.
In the height of the coaching era - the 18th and early 19th centuries - Stony Stratford was an important stopping-off point for mail and passenger coaches travelling between London and the North of England. This coaching history is the source of the supposed origin of the phrase 'cock and bull story'.
The Cock and the Bull were two of the main coaching inns in the town and the banter and rivalry between groups of travellers is said to have resulted in exaggerated and fanciful stories, which became known as 'cock and bull stories'. The two hostelries did, and still do, exist.
In light of this I shall be travelling to Stony Stratford this weekend to investigate,not wishing to appear as a struggling South African wannabe Sherlock Holmes of no means, I am appealing for donations to hire a Limousine with a well stocked cooler box and some funds to purchase fine English beers in order to get patrons at these venues loosening their tongues to assist in my investigation.
My banking details will be supplied on request.
Follow this space for the truth finally being exposed.
Report back....
A very nice and certainly accommodating young chamber maid confirmed the validity of the claim. Say no more.
A very nice and certainly accommodating young chamber maid confirmed the validity of the claim. Say no more.