As you might have expected, this month’s quiz has a festive theme. As before the correct answer will turn green when it’s clicked upon and expanded to give more information. The incorrect answers will turn red giving the correct explanation.
1. The first Christmas card was invented in London by Sir Henry Cole in 1843. What was the picture on it?
A family drinking wine
CORRECT Illustrated by John Callcott the central picture showed three generations of a family raising a toast to the card’s recipient, on either side were scenes of charity, with food and clothing being given to the poor.
A robin singing
WRONG Illustrated by John Callcott the central picture showed three generations of a family raising a toast to the card’s recipient, on either side were scenes of charity, with food and clothing being given to the poor.
A bobby apprehending a pickpocket
WRONG Illustrated by John Callcott the central picture showed three generations of a family raising a toast to the card’s recipient, on either side were scenes of charity, with food and clothing being given to the poor.
2. The demo of The Pogues’ Fairytale of New York was recorded in one London studio, the final cut in another London studio, and the orchestra in a third. Which of these studios had nothing to do with the song?
Abbey Road Studios in St John’s Wood
WRONG In the UK, “Fairytale of New York” is the most-played Christmas song of the 21st century. Stiff Records had a difficult time getting it published using these London studios Elephant; Sarm West; AIR; Abbey Road; RAK Studios, but NOT Eel Pie Studio.
Eel pie studio in Twickenham
CORRECTIn the UK, “Fairytale of New York” is the most-played Christmas song of the 21st century. Stiff Records had a difficult time getting it published using these London studios Elephant; Sarm West; AIR; Abbey Road; RAK Studios, but NOT Eel Pie Studio.
RAK Studios in St John’s Wood
WRONG In the UK, “Fairytale of New York” is the most-played Christmas song of the 21st century. Stiff Records had a difficult time getting it published using these London studios Elephant; Sarm West; AIR; Abbey Road; RAK Studios, but NOT Eel Pie Studio.
3. In A Christmas Carol, which form of poultry does Scrooge send a young lad off to fetch?
Turkey
CORRECT Scrooge asks if the big prize turkey has been sold at the poulterer’s shop. The boy tells him it is still there. Planning to give the turkey to Bob Cratchit, Scrooge orders the boy to have the man bring the turkey to his home, and if he does it in less than five minutes, he’ll give him a half-crown.
Chicken
WRONG Scrooge asks if the big prize turkey has been sold at the poulterer’s shop. The boy tells him it is still there. Planning to give the turkey to Bob Cratchit, Scrooge orders the boy to have the man bring the turkey to his home, and if he does it in less than five minutes, he’ll give him a half-crown.
Goose
WRONG Scrooge asks if the big prize turkey has been sold at the poulterer’s shop. The boy tells him it is still there. Planning to give the turkey to Bob Cratchit, Scrooge orders the boy to have the man bring the turkey to his home, and if he does it in less than five minutes, he’ll give him a half-crown.
4. In festive musical The Ghosts of Oxford Street, who features as an all-singing, all-dancing Harry Gordon Selfridge?
Tom Jones
CORRECT Malcolm McLaren charts the extraordinary history of London’s famous shopping street in a musical film that features Sir Tom Jones, Sinead O’Connor, The Pogues, and Kirsty MacColl. Perversely Tom Jones played the lead of Harry Gordon Selfridge.
Malcolm McLaren
WRONG Malcolm McLaren charts the extraordinary history of London’s famous shopping street in a musical film that features Sir Tom Jones, Sinead O’Connor, The Pogues, and Kirsty MacColl. Perversely Tom Jones played the lead of Harry Gordon Selfridge.
Brian Blessed
WRONG Malcolm McLaren charts the extraordinary history of London’s famous shopping street in a musical film that features Sir Tom Jones, Sinead O’Connor, The Pogues, and Kirsty MacColl. Perversely Tom Jones played the lead of Harry Gordon Selfridge.
5. Which of these does NOT normally open in London on Christmas Day?
Fortnum & Mason
CORRECT Believe it or not, Ripley’s normally opens on Christmas Day. Hardly surprising for their employees Fortnum & Mason keep their door firmly closed.
St Paul’s Cathedral
WRONG Believe it or not, Ripley’s normally opens on Christmas Day. Hardly surprising for their employees Fortnum & Mason keep their door firmly closed.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not?
WRONG Believe it or not, Ripley’s normally opens on Christmas Day. Hardly surprising for their employees Fortnum & Mason keep their door firmly closed.
6. The Trafalgar Square tree has been donated every Christmas since 1947 by which city?
Reykjavik
WRONG The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a Christmas tree donated to the people of Britain by the city of Oslo. The first Tree was cut down by Mons Urangsvåg in 1942 during a raid on the Norwegian Island called Hisøy. Hisøy Island is located on the west coast between Bergen and Haugesund. After it was cut down, the tree was then transported to England where The Norwegian King was hiding, and given to him as a gift.
Oslo
CORRECT The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a Christmas tree donated to the people of Britain by the city of Oslo. The first Tree was cut down by Mons Urangsvåg in 1942 during a raid on the Norwegian Island called Hisøy. Hisøy Island is located on the west coast between Bergen and Haugesund. After it was cut down, the tree was then transported to England where The Norwegian King was hiding, and given to him as a gift.
Stockholm
WRONG The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a Christmas tree donated to the people of Britain by the city of Oslo. The first Tree was cut down by Mons Urangsvåg in 1942 during a raid on the Norwegian Island called Hisøy. Hisøy Island is located on the west coast between Bergen and Haugesund. After it was cut down, the tree was then transported to England where The Norwegian King was hiding, and given to him as a gift.
7. Which of these is NOT a Christmas Day extract from Samuel Pepy’s diary?
“…taking occasion from some fault in the meat to complain of my maid’s sluttery, my wife and I fell out…”
WRONG While Pepys wrote his diary for own his consumption, Roy Wood and Wizzard in 1973 had no such reservations and inflicted us with “I wish it could be Christmas every day” forevermore.
“Captain Cock came to us half-drunk…”
WRONG While Pepys wrote his diary for own his consumption, Roy Wood and Wizzard in 1973 had no such reservations and inflicted us with “I wish it could be Christmas every day” forevermore.
“For indeed, I wish it could be Christmas every day…”
CORRECT While Pepys wrote his diary for own his consumption, Roy Wood and Wizzard in 1973 had no such reservations and inflicted us with “I wish it could be Christmas every day” forevermore.
8. Noel Edmonds’s 1984 Christmas Day TV show was broadcast from the top of which lofty London landmark?
The Monument
WRONG For 90 minutes on 25 December 1984 “nothing less than one of the greatest communications projects ever put forward” as Noel modestly described proceedings from the top of the Post Office Tower, as it was then known. Featuring Rila Lenska and Dennis Waterman drinking a can of lager in Australia and the Krankies play host to the highest Christmas party on a jumbo jet flying over Britain.
Centre Point
WRONG For 90 minutes on 25 December 1984 “nothing less than one of the greatest communications projects ever put forward” as Noel modestly described proceedings from the top of the Post Office Tower, as it was then known. Featuring Rila Lenska and Dennis Waterman drinking a can of lager in Australia and the Krankies play host to the highest Christmas party on a jumbo jet flying over Britain.
The BT Tower
CORRECT For 90 minutes on 25 December 1984 “nothing less than one of the greatest communications projects ever put forward” as Noel modestly described proceedings from the top of the Post Office Tower, as it was then known. Featuring Rila Lenska and Dennis Waterman drinking a can of lager in Australia and the Krankies play host to the highest Christmas party on a jumbo jet flying over Britain.
9. In 1963 the switching on of Oxford Street’s Christmas lights was postponed. Why?
In tribute to the recently assassinated JFK
CORRECT The lighting up of London was postponed as a mark of respect to the recently assassinated John F Kennedy. And in 1989, the great switch on in Oxford Street bowed to the power of pop celebrity, waiting several weeks past its usual mid-November date for Kylie Minogue to make a window in her hectic schedule.
There was a major power cut in central London
WRONG The lighting up of London was postponed as a mark of respect to the recently assassinated John F Kennedy. And in 1989, the great switch on in Oxford Street bowed to the power of pop celebrity, waiting several weeks past its usual mid-November date for Kylie Minogue to make a window in her hectic schedule.
The Beatles cancelled an appearance at the last minute
WRONG The lighting up of London was postponed as a mark of respect to the recently assassinated John F Kennedy. And in 1989, the great switch on in Oxford Street bowed to the power of pop celebrity, waiting several weeks past its usual mid-November date for Kylie Minogue to make a window in her hectic schedule.
10. In 2015 a box of six luxury Christmas crackers from Fortnum & Mason set you back £1,000. Which of these items was NOT inside?
Scarf
WRONG The cracker included that essential: a rose gold-plated heart tea infuser, plus a scarf and a tie, but no diamond earrings.
Diamond earrings
CORRECT The cracker included that essential: a rose gold-plated heart tea infuser, plus a scarf and a tie, but no diamond earrings.
Tie
WRONG The cracker included that essential: a rose gold-plated heart tea infuser, plus a scarf and a tie, but no diamond earrings.
As David Bowie sang in his seminal song – Changes, this month’s quiz is about changes that have been made in London. As before the correct answer will turn green when it’s clicked upon and expanded to give more information. The incorrect answers will turn red giving the correct explanation.
1. On what product was the image updated to show scaffolding?
HP Sauce
CORRECT To mark the 160th anniversary of Big Ben’s first chimes, HP Sauce bottles now show the iconic tower in its current scaffolding-swaddled state. The new labels will stay on bottles until sometime in 2021 when it’s hoped the iconic clock tower is fully restored.
House of Commons tea
WRONG To mark the 160th anniversary of Big Ben’s first chimes, HP Sauce bottles now show the iconic tower in its current scaffolding-swaddled state. The new labels will stay on bottles until sometime in 2021 when it’s hoped the iconic clock tower is fully restored.
Tourist postcards
WRONG To mark the 160th anniversary of Big Ben’s first chimes, HP Sauce bottles now show the iconic tower in its current scaffolding-swaddled state. The new labels will stay on bottles until sometime in 2021 when it’s hoped the iconic clock tower is fully restored.
2. . In 2013 Roger Federer was told to change his shoes during Wimbledon – why?
They had Adidas branding
WRONG They had orange soles, and players are meant to be dressed in all white.
They had orange soles
CORRECT They had orange soles, and players are meant to be dressed in all white.
They were built up, thus giving him an advantage
WRONG They had orange soles, and players are meant to be dressed in all white.
3. In 1905 two brothers named Stratton were convicted of robbery and murder at a paint shop in Deptford High Street. What methodology was used to secure convictions and change detection?
The first case in which fingerprints were successfully used to convict
CORRECT On 27th March 1905, Chapman’s Oil and Paint Shop was raided and the shopkeeper murdered. A thumb mark was left on the emptied cash box. Using a method of identification that had been in use for a couple of years, it was the first time the Crown achieved a murder conviction and one of the first in the world to use the methodology still in use today.
Their getaway car, which had an early number plate was identified leading to the police tracking them down
WRONG On 27th March 1905, Chapman’s Oil and Paint Shop was raided and the shopkeeper murdered. A thumb mark was left on the emptied cash box. Using a method of identification that had been in use for a couple of years, it was the first time the Crown achieved a murder conviction and one of the first in the world to use the methodology still in use today.
The first identikit portrait from a witness, the local milkman
WRONG On 27th March 1905, Chapman’s Oil and Paint Shop was raided and the shopkeeper murdered. A thumb mark was left on the emptied cash box. Using a method of identification that had been in use for a couple of years, it was the first time the Crown achieved a murder conviction and one of the first in the world to use the methodology still in use today.
4. Which Underground station was known as Westminster Bridge Road until the name was changed in 1917?
Lambeth North
CORRECT The station was opened by the Baker Street & Waterloo Railway on 10 March 1906, with the name Kennington Road. On 5 August 1906, when Elephant & Castle station was opened, the station’s name was changed to Westminster Bridge Road in July 1906 and it was again renamed, to Lambeth North, in April 1917.
Westminster
WRONG The station was opened by the Baker Street & Waterloo Railway on 10 March 1906, with the name Kennington Road. On 5 August 1906, when Elephant & Castle station was opened, the station’s name was changed to Westminster Bridge Road in July 1906 and it was again renamed, to Lambeth North, in April 1917.
Southwark
WRONG The station was opened by the Baker Street & Waterloo Railway on 10 March 1906, with the name Kennington Road. On 5 August 1906, when Elephant & Castle station was opened, the station’s name was changed to Westminster Bridge Road in July 1906 and it was again renamed, to Lambeth North, in April 1917.
5. What was Marble Arch before it changed to its current position in well – Marble Arch?
It was at the entrance to Buckingham Palace
CORRECT The Marble-covered arches sat at the entrance to the courtyard of Buckingham Palace was only meant to be walked under by Royals and members of the Royal Guard. Today in its present position, only Royals pass through the central arch.
It spanned Park Lane before the road was enlarged
WRONG The Marble-covered arches sat at the entrance to the courtyard of Buckingham Palace was only meant to be walked under by Royals and members of the Royal Guard. Today in its present position, only Royals pass through the central arch.
It stood outside Paddington Station
WRONG The Marble-covered arches sat at the entrance to the courtyard of Buckingham Palace was only meant to be walked under by Royals and members of the Royal Guard. Today in its present position, only Royals pass through the central arch.
6. Which Underground line changed direction?
Northern Line
WRONG The Circle Line has taken on a new shape. It is now more like a lasso, or a figure six turned on its side, with a beginning and end. The old circle has been broken at Edgware Road, in west London, and stretched all the way to Hammersmith.
Circle Line
CORRECT The Circle Line has taken on a new shape. It is now more like a lasso, or a figure six turned on its side, with a beginning and end. The old circle has been broken at Edgware Road, in west London, and stretched all the way to Hammersmith.
Bakerloo Line
WRONG The Circle Line has taken on a new shape. It is now more like a lasso, or a figure six turned on its side, with a beginning and end. The old circle has been broken at Edgware Road, in west London, and stretched all the way to Hammersmith.
7. Which Underground line changed its name on the day it was opened?
Crossrail
WRONG Originally the Jubilee line was to be named the Fleet Line after the river Fleet that runs through the capital. A name change happened when London Transport was planning to introduce the Silver Jubilee bus line in anticipation of the 25th anniversary of the Queen’s reign. They re-named the Tube line instead. Crossrail renamed the Elizabeth Line has yet to open.
Central Line
WRONG Originally the Jubilee line was to be named the Fleet Line after the river Fleet that runs through the capital. A name change happened when London Transport was planning to introduce the Silver Jubilee bus line in anticipation of the 25th anniversary of the Queen’s reign. They re-named the Tube line instead. Crossrail renamed the Elizabeth Line has yet to open.
Jubilee Line
CORRECT Originally the Jubilee line was to be named the Fleet Line after the river Fleet that runs through the capital. A name change happened when London Transport was planning to introduce the Silver Jubilee bus line in anticipation of the 25th anniversary of the Queen’s reign. They re-named the Tube line instead. Crossrail renamed the Elizabeth Line has yet to open.
8. The Theatre, Shoreditch, opened by James Burbage in 1576, was one of London’s earliest playhouses. It was taken in 1598, and repurposed for what?
The seating ended up used as seats in public toilets
WRONG The Globe was reconstructed on Bankside using much of The Theatre’s components. Shakespeare had a share in the new theatre staging Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Macbeth and King Lear here.
The thatch was used to burn Burbage for heresy
WRONG The Globe was reconstructed on Bankside using much of The Theatre’s components. Shakespeare had a share in the new theatre staging Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Macbeth and King Lear here.
The timbers were used to build The Globe on Bankside
CORRECT The Globe was reconstructed on Bankside using much of The Theatre’s components. Shakespeare had a share in the new theatre staging Romeo and Juliet, Othello, Macbeth and King Lear here.
9. During World War II the All-England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club at Wimbledon changed from hosting tennis tournaments to what?
Allotments
CORRECT During the war Wimbledon was used to grow vegetables, the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden became a dance hall.
A billet for GIs
WRONG During the war Wimbledon was used to grow vegetables, the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden became a dance hall.
An army parade ground
WRONG During the war Wimbledon was used to grow vegetables, the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden became a dance hall.
10. Following a petition from Arsenal Football Club, Gillespie Road underground station in Highbury was re-named Arsenal (Highbury Hill) in 1932. For five months in 1939 which other London sporting locale had its own dedicated tube stop?
Craven Cottage, Fulham
WRONG On 11 June 1939, the St. John’s Wood station on the Metropolitan line near the famous cricket ground was renamed Lord’s Station. Unfortunately, the extension of the Bakerloo (now Jubilee) line to Stanmore that November resulted in the creation of another station serving St. John’s Wood. During the war, the Lord’s Station was closed and never reopened.
Lord’s Cricket Ground, Marylebone
CORRECT On 11 June 1939, the St. John’s Wood station on the Metropolitan line near the famous cricket ground was renamed Lord’s Station. Unfortunately, the extension of the Bakerloo (now Jubilee) line to Stanmore that November resulted in the creation of another station serving St. John’s Wood. During the war, the Lord’s Station was closed and never reopened.
White Hart Lane, Tottenham
WRONG On 11 June 1939, the St. John’s Wood station on the Metropolitan line near the famous cricket ground was renamed Lord’s Station. Unfortunately, the extension of the Bakerloo (now Jubilee) line to Stanmore that November resulted in the creation of another station serving St. John’s Wood. During the war, the Lord’s Station was closed and never reopened.
This month’s questions cover a wide number of subjects, so you should manage one or two. As before the correct answer will turn green when it’s clicked upon and expanded to give more information. The incorrect answers will turn red giving the correct explanation.
1. Canary Wharf is in what London borough?
Tower Hamlets
CORRECT Despite the wealth of many working in Canary Wharf the borough of Tower Hamlets, where it’s located is ranked third most deprived in London.
Newham
WRONG Despite the wealth of many working in Canary Wharf the borough of Tower Hamlets, where it’s located is ranked third most deprived in London.
Hackney
WRONG Despite the wealth of many working in Canary Wharf the borough of Tower Hamlets, where it’s located is ranked third most deprived in London.
2. Name the famous Jazz club located at 47 Frith Street, Soho.
Jazz After Dark
WRONG The Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club opened on 30 October 1959 in a basement at 39 Gerrard Street by musicians Ronnie Scott and Pete King, moving in 1965 to a larger venue in nearby 47 Frith Street.
Ronnie Scott’s
CORRECT The Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club opened on 30 October 1959 in a basement at 39 Gerrard Street by musicians Ronnie Scott and Pete King, moving in 1965 to a larger venue in nearby 47 Frith Street.
The Piano Bar Soho
WRONG The Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club opened on 30 October 1959 in a basement at 39 Gerrard Street by musicians Ronnie Scott and Pete King, moving in 1965 to a larger venue in nearby 47 Frith Street.
3. Name the largest of London’s subterranean rivers.
Fleet
CORRECT The River Fleet is the largest of London’s subterranean rivers. Its headwaters are two streams on Hampstead Heath, reaching the Thames beneath Blackfriars Bridge.
Walbrook
WRONG The River Fleet is the largest of London’s subterranean rivers. Its headwaters are two streams on Hampstead Heath, reaching the Thames beneath Blackfriars Bridge.
Tyburn
WRONG The River Fleet is the largest of London’s subterranean rivers. Its headwaters are two streams on Hampstead Heath, reaching the Thames beneath Blackfriars Bridge.
4. How many tube stations have the word ‘Square’ in their name?
4
CORRECT Four: Euston Square, Leicester Square, Russell Square, Sloane Square.
2
WRONG Four: Euston Square, Leicester Square, Russell Square, Sloane Square.
6
WRONG Four: Euston Square, Leicester Square, Russell Square, Sloane Square.
5. Name the Home County NOT bordering London
Sussex
CORRECT Six of the Home Counties border London: Essex, Herts, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Kent and Berkshire, but NOT Sussex, East or West.
Essex
WRONG Six of the Home Counties border London: Essex, Herts, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Kent and Berkshire, but NOT Sussex, East or West.
Surrey
WRONG Six of the Home Counties border London: Essex, Herts, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Kent and Berkshire, but NOT Sussex, East or West.
6. What does Paul McCartney wear on his feet on the cover of Abbey Road?
Desert boots
WRONG Paul McCartney claimed it was hot and he kicked off his sandals before the shoot. Why walking on the hot paved road in bare feet was more comfortable than wearing shoes/sandals are unclear. John wears white Spring Court sneakers; George is wearing Clarks desert boots, and Ringo wears sensible black brogues.
Nothing
CORRECT Paul McCartney claimed it was hot and he kicked off his sandals before the shoot. Why walking on the hot paved road in bare feet was more comfortable than wearing shoes/sandals are unclear. John wears white Spring Court sneakers; George is wearing Clarks desert boots, and Ringo wears sensible black brogues.
Brogues
WRONG Paul McCartney claimed it was hot and he kicked off his sandals before the shoot. Why walking on the hot paved road in bare feet was more comfortable than wearing shoes/sandals are unclear. John wears white Spring Court sneakers; George is wearing Clarks desert boots, and Ringo wears sensible black brogues.
7. What annual event/parade is be held In London in early July each year?
Notting Hill Carnival
WRONG The first official UK Gay Pride Rally was held in London on 1 July 1972 (chosen as the nearest Saturday to the anniversary of the Stonewall riots of 1969) it attracted approximately 2,000 participants. Since 1966 on the streets of Notting Hill, Carnival takes place over 2 days during the August Bank Holiday. Founded by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley in 1981, the London is typically held in April.
London Marathon
WRONG The first official UK Gay Pride Rally was held in London on 1 July 1972 (chosen as the nearest Saturday to the anniversary of the Stonewall riots of 1969) it attracted approximately 2,000 participants. Since 1966 on the streets of Notting Hill, Carnival takes place over 2 days during the August Bank Holiday. Founded by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley in 1981, the London is typically held in April.
Gay Pride
CORRECT The first official UK Gay Pride Rally was held in London on 1 July 1972 (chosen as the nearest Saturday to the anniversary of the Stonewall riots of 1969) it attracted approximately 2,000 participants. Since 1966 on the streets of Notting Hill, Carnival takes place over 2 days during the August Bank Holiday. Founded by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley in 1981, the London is typically held in April.
8. The clock face above the entrance of The Horse Guards has a black spot on it at 2 o’clock – what does this commemorate?
The Prince of Wales was being shown the restoration, and he slipped with his paintbrush
WRONG A dark stain above the Roman number two on the clock face is supposed to mark the time of the execution of King Charles I in 1649, which took place in the roadway outside Horse Guards. The annual ceremony of Trooping the Colour commences when the Horse Guards clock strikes eleven.
It’s the exact time they Troop the Colour here
WRONG A dark stain above the Roman number two on the clock face is supposed to mark the time of the execution of King Charles I in 1649, which took place in the roadway outside Horse Guards. The annual ceremony of Trooping the Colour commences when the Horse Guards clock strikes eleven.
The time that King Charles I was executed
CORRECT A dark stain above the Roman number two on the clock face is supposed to mark the time of the execution of King Charles I in 1649, which took place in the roadway outside Horse Guards. The annual ceremony of Trooping the Colour commences when the Horse Guards clock strikes eleven.
9. Prince Albert, Lewis Carroll and Queen Victoria’s doctor were all suspects in what police case?
The hunt for Jack the Ripper
CORRECT There have been over 500 ‘suspects’ identified over the years as Jack the Ripper. Dr Thomas Neill Cream is but one, who was hanged for an unrelated murder at Newgate Prison. His executioner, James Billington, swears Cream’s last words were “I am Jack the …” Which is, admittedly, a weird thing to say if your name is Thomas.
Establishing the father of Charles Darwin
WRONG There have been over 500 ‘suspects’ identified over the years as Jack the Ripper. Dr Thomas Neill Cream is but one, who was hanged for an unrelated murder at Newgate Prison. His executioner, James Billington, swears Cream’s last words were “I am Jack the …” Which is, admittedly, a weird thing to say if your name is Thomas.
Whether they were implicated in the attempted assassination of Queen Victoria
WRONG There have been over 500 ‘suspects’ identified over the years as Jack the Ripper. Dr Thomas Neill Cream is but one, who was hanged for an unrelated murder at Newgate Prison. His executioner, James Billington, swears Cream’s last words were “I am Jack the …” Which is, admittedly, a weird thing to say if your name is Thomas.
10. The Oval is named after the oval road it was built on – but what was the oval road built around?
A pickle factory
WRONG A humble cabbage patch prevented Harleyford Road from being constructed in a straight line. Gasholder No 1 near the Oval famous as the backdrop to so many cricket matches is now protected. When it was built in 1877-9, this was the largest one in the world.
A cabbage patch
CORRECT A humble cabbage patch prevented Harleyford Road from being constructed in a straight line. Gasholder No 1 near the Oval famous as the backdrop to so many cricket matches is now protected. When it was built in 1877-9, this was the largest one in the world.
A gasholder
WRONG A humble cabbage patch prevented Harleyford Road from being constructed in a straight line. Gasholder No 1 near the Oval famous as the backdrop to so many cricket matches is now protected. When it was built in 1877-9, this was the largest one in the world.
Arather eclectic mix of questions for this month’s quiz. As before the correct answer will turn green when it’s clicked upon and expanded to give more information. The incorrect answers will turn red giving the correct explanation.
1. Oranges and Lemons say the bells of St Clements. What does the great bell of Bow say?
I do not know
CORRECT Oranges and lemons, Say the bells of St Clement’s.
You owe me five farthings, Say the bells of St. Martin’s.
When will you pay me? Say the bells of Old Bailey.
When I grow rich, Say the bells of Shoreditch.
When will that be? Say the bells of Stepney.
I do not know, Says the great bell of Bow.
.
When I grow rich
WRONG Oranges and lemons, Say the bells of St Clement’s.
You owe me five farthings, Say the bells of St. Martin’s.
When will you pay me? Say the bells of Old Bailey.
When I grow rich, Say the bells of Shoreditch.
When will that be? Say the bells of Stepney.
I do not know, Says the great bell of Bow.
.
When will that be?
WRONG Oranges and lemons, Say the bells of St Clement’s.
You owe me five farthings, Say the bells of St. Martin’s.
When will you pay me? Say the bells of Old Bailey.
When I grow rich, Say the bells of Shoreditch.
When will that be? Say the bells of Stepney.
I do not know, Says the great bell of Bow.
.
2. What was the name of Reggie and Ronnie Kray’s older brother?
George
WRONG Charlie Kray was the older brother and took an active role in the twin’s gang. He’s said to be the lesser of three evils, though he was jailed for 12 years, at the ripe old age of 70, for plotting to smuggle nearly £40million worth of cocaine. He died in prison three years later.
Charlie
CORRECT Charlie Kray was the older brother and took an active role in the twin’s gang. He’s said to be the lesser of three evils, though he was jailed for 12 years, at the ripe old age of 70, for plotting to smuggle nearly £40million worth of cocaine. He died in prison three years later.
Fred
WRONG Charlie Kray was the older brother and took an active role in the twin’s gang. He’s said to be the lesser of three evils, though he was jailed for 12 years, at the ripe old age of 70, for plotting to smuggle nearly £40million worth of cocaine. He died in prison three years later.
3. What football club is the oldest in London?
Fulham
CORRECT Fulham was founded in 1879 and are London’s oldest club still playing professionally. Royal Arsenal was London’s first team to turn professional in 1891. They became Woolwich Arsenal in 1893 and then became Arsenal in 1913. Charlton Athletic was founded in 1905.
Arsenal
WRONG Fulham was founded in 1879 and are London’s oldest club still playing professionally. Royal Arsenal was London’s first team to turn professional in 1891. They became Woolwich Arsenal in 1893 and then became Arsenal in 1913. Charlton Athletic was founded in 1905.
Charlton
WRONG Fulham was founded in 1879 and are London’s oldest club still playing professionally. Royal Arsenal was London’s first team to turn professional in 1891. They became Woolwich Arsenal in 1893 and then became Arsenal in 1913. Charlton Athletic was founded in 1905.
4. What famous address is located at postcode SW1A 2AA?
Portcullis House
WRONG 10 Downing Street is SW1A 2AA
Portcullis House is SW1A 2LW
Westminster Abbey is SW1P 3PA
Westminster Abbey
WRONG 10 Downing Street is SW1A 2AA
Portcullis House is SW1A 2LW
Westminster Abbey is SW1P 3PA.
10 Downing Street
CORRECT10 Downing Street is SW1A 2AA
Portcullis House is SW1A 2LW
Westminster Abbey is SW1P 3PA.
5. Which airport has the luggage code LCY?
City
CORRECT City – LCY
Heathrow – LHR
Gatwick – LGW
.
Heathrow
WRONG City – LCY
Heathrow – LHR
Gatwick – LGW
.
Gatwick
WRONG City – LCY
Heathrow – LHR
Gatwick – LGW
.
6. George Michael infamously crashed his Range Rover into the Hampstead branch of what high street shop?
Specsavers
WRONG George Michael served four weeks in prison in 2010 after his Range Rover ploughed into a Snappy Snaps shop while he was driving under the influence of drugs after the Gay Pride parade. Snappy Snaps tried to discourage fans leaving flowers at the Hampstead premises when he later died.
Snappy Snaps
CORRECT George Michael served four weeks in prison in 2010 after his Range Rover ploughed into a Snappy Snaps shop while he was driving under the influence of drugs after the Gay Pride parade. Snappy Snaps tried to discourage fans leaving flowers at the Hampstead premises when he later died.
McDonald’s
WRONG George Michael served four weeks in prison in 2010 after his Range Rover ploughed into a Snappy Snaps shop while he was driving under the influence of drugs after the Gay Pride parade. Snappy Snaps tried to discourage fans leaving flowers at the Hampstead premises when he later died.
7. In which London neighbourhood can you find ‘Little Portugal?
South Kensington
WRONG Stockwell is home to a large Portuguese community, with many Portuguese businesses located in the area. Clerkenwell was once known as ‘Little Italy’. More French people live in London than in Bordeaux, Nantes or Strasbourg and some now regard it as France’s sixth biggest city in terms of population. Once centred around South Kensington, many now favour East London.
Clerkenwell
WRONG Stockwell is home to a large Portuguese community, with many Portuguese businesses located in the area. Clerkenwell was once known as ‘Little Italy’. More French people live in London than in Bordeaux, Nantes or Strasbourg and some now regard it as France’s sixth biggest city in terms of population. Once centred around South Kensington, many now favour East London.
Stockwell
CORRECT Stockwell is home to a large Portuguese community, with many Portuguese businesses located in the area. Clerkenwell was once known as ‘Little Italy’. More French people live in London than in Bordeaux, Nantes or Strasbourg and some now regard it as France’s sixth biggest city in terms of population. Once centred around South Kensington, many now favour East London.
8. Name the river that flows directly outside the 2012 Olympic Stadium?
River Rom
WRONG The River Lea (also spelt Lee) originates in Marsh Farm in the Chiltern Hills and flows in a general SE direction. When the river reaches the boundary of old Metropolitan London, it essentially flows south until it meets River Thames at Bow Creek. It is one of the largest tributaries of the Thames in London and it is the easternmost major tributary of the Thames.
Hackney Brook
WRONG The River Lea (also spelt Lee) originates in Marsh Farm in the Chiltern Hills and flows in a general SE direction. When the river reaches the boundary of old Metropolitan London, it essentially flows south until it meets River Thames at Bow Creek. It is one of the largest tributaries of the Thames in London and it is the easternmost major tributary of the Thames.
River Lea
CORRECT The River Lea (also spelt Lee) originates in Marsh Farm in the Chiltern Hills and flows in a general SE direction. When the river reaches the boundary of old Metropolitan London, it essentially flows south until it meets River Thames at Bow Creek. It is one of the largest tributaries of the Thames in London and it is the easternmost major tributary of the Thames.
9. a London football ground and also the name of a battle in September 1066?
Stamford Bridge
CORRECT The Battle of Stamford Bridge took place at the village of Stamford Bridge, East Riding of Yorkshire, in England on 25 September 1066, between an English army under King Harold Godwinson and an invading Norwegian force led by King Harald Hardrada. The Battle of Barnet took place on 14 April 1471 and decisive engagement in the Wars of the Roses. The Territorial Army trained the local population as preparation for the enlistment of men into the armed services at the start of World War II. This took place on the Craven Cottage pitch.
Craven Cottage
WRONG The Battle of Stamford Bridge took place at the village of Stamford Bridge, East Riding of Yorkshire, in England on 25 September 1066, between an English army under King Harold Godwinson and an invading Norwegian force led by King Harald Hardrada. The Battle of Barnet took place on 14 April 1471 and decisive engagement in the Wars of the Roses. The Territorial Army trained the local population as preparation for the enlistment of men into the armed services at the start of World War II. This took place on the Craven Cottage pitch.
Barnet
WRONG The Battle of Stamford Bridge took place at the village of Stamford Bridge, East Riding of Yorkshire, in England on 25 September 1066, between an English army under King Harold Godwinson and an invading Norwegian force led by King Harald Hardrada. The Battle of Barnet took place on 14 April 1471 and decisive engagement in the Wars of the Roses. The Territorial Army trained the local population as preparation for the enlistment of men into the armed services at the start of World War II. This took place on the Craven Cottage pitch.
10. Starring in BBC’s Eastenders, what was the name of Dirty Den’s poodle?
Holly
WRONG Roly was the pet poodle of Sharon Watts who lived with her and Den and Angie at the Queen Victoria. He appeared on the first episode of the programme on 19 February 1985 and remained in the show until 19 October 1993.
Roly
CORRECT Roly was the pet poodle of Sharon Watts who lived with her and Den and Angie at the Queen Victoria. He appeared on the first episode of the programme on 19 February 1985 and remained in the show until 19 October 1993.
Polly
WRONG Roly was the pet poodle of Sharon Watts who lived with her and Den and Angie at the Queen Victoria. He appeared on the first episode of the programme on 19 February 1985 and remained in the show until 19 October 1993.
Death is the subject today, something that comes to all of us sooner or later. As before the correct answer will turn green when it’s clicked upon and expanded to give more information. The incorrect answers will turn red giving the correct explanation.
1. Even in death, Steve Marsh received a parking ticket. Why?
He was buried beneath a replica marble headstone of a BMW
CORRECT In May 2010 Steve Marsh, a BMW fanatic was buried beneath a £50,000 1-tonne life-sized marble replica M3 convertible in Manor Park Cemetery and a parking ticket was affixed to the windscreen.
He was a funeral director and his hearse was double-parked
WRONG In May 2010 Steve Marsh, a BMW fanatic was buried beneath a £50,000 1-tonne life-sized marble replica M3 convertible in Manor Park Cemetery and a parking ticket was affixed to the windscreen.
The night he died his car had been stolen and parked on a red route
WRONG In May 2010 Steve Marsh, a BMW fanatic was buried beneath a £50,000 1-tonne life-sized marble replica M3 convertible in Manor Park Cemetery and a parking ticket was affixed to the windscreen.
2. Why did Pawel Modzelewski’s demise go unnoticed?
Tradition has it that anyone sleeping in Polish Club is left undisturbed
WRONG On 19 January 2009 Pawel Modzelewski travelled the 19 bus for six hours unnoticed after dying the previous day and was left in the garage overnight.
He died on a bus and was found the next day in the bus garage
CORRECT On 19 January 2009 Pawel Modzelewski travelled the 19 bus for six hours unnoticed after dying the previous day and was left in the garage overnight.
Before the Underground changed he lay undisturbed going around the Circle Line for a whole day
WRONG On 19 January 2009 Pawel Modzelewski travelled the 19 bus for six hours unnoticed after dying the previous day and was left in the garage overnight.
3. Why did the death of Martial Bourdin start a riot?
He blew himself up
CORRECT In February 1894 in Greenwich Park anarchist, Martial Bourdin accidentally blew himself en route to blowing up the Royal Observatory. His funeral sparked riots by 15,000 near the Autonomie Anarchist Club, 6 Windmill Street.
He was killed by the police
WRONG In February 1894 in Greenwich Park anarchist, Martial Bourdin accidentally blew himself en route to blowing up the Royal Observatory. His funeral sparked riots by 15,000 near the Autonomie Anarchist Club, 6 Windmill Street.
He was assassinated on the Government’s order
WRONG In February 1894 in Greenwich Park anarchist, Martial Bourdin accidentally blew himself en route to blowing up the Royal Observatory. His funeral sparked riots by 15,000 near the Autonomie Anarchist Club, 6 Windmill Street.
4. Why does 9 Curzon Place, Mayfair hold a curious London reputation for death?
Ghosts who reputedly committed suicide to haunt the premises
WRONG Flat 12, 9 Curzon Place was where Cass Elliot of Mamas and Papas died in 1974 of a heart attack. The flat was on loan from singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson. Four years later, The Who’s drummer Keith Moon died in the same room. They were both aged 32 years.
It was the scene of a gangland massacre in the 1950s
WRONG Flat 12, 9 Curzon Place was where Cass Elliot of Mamas and Papas died in 1974 of a heart attack. The flat was on loan from singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson. Four years later, The Who’s drummer Keith Moon died in the same room. They were both aged 32 years.
Two rock stars have met their demise here
CORRECT Flat 12, 9 Curzon Place was where Cass Elliot of Mamas and Papas died in 1974 of a heart attack. The flat was on loan from singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson. Four years later, The Who’s drummer Keith Moon died in the same room. They were both aged 32 years.
5. How did the Necropolis Railway Company offer to transport the dead?
It offered first, second and third class one-way tickets
CORRECT The Necropolis Railway Company transported coffins from Waterloo to Brockwood Cemetery customers could choose between first, second and third class.
It offered viewing windows in its carriages for mourners to pay their respects as the train passed by
WRONG The Necropolis Railway Company transported coffins from Waterloo to Brockwood Cemetery customers could choose between first, second and third class.
The train driver wore a dark suit along with black gloves, a hatband and cravat
WRONG The Necropolis Railway Company transported coffins from Waterloo to Brockwood Cemetery customers could choose between first, second and third class.
6. On 17th October 1814 eight people met an untimely and unusual end, but what was the cause of their demise?
The Great London Earthquake
WRONG Beer was the drink of choice as the water was often unsafe. The demand led to brewers constructing huge vats as an economical way of producing the beverage. One such vat burst its hoops which in turn ruptured nearby vats. Eventually, more than 323,000 gallons became a tsunami drowning 8 people. The Dominion Theatre stands on the site of the ill-fated Horseshoe Brewery.
The Great Beer Flood
CORRECT Beer was the drink of choice as the water was often unsafe. The demand led to brewers constructing huge vats as an economical way of producing the beverage. One such vat burst its hoops which in turn ruptured nearby vats. Eventually, more than 323,000 gallons became a tsunami drowning 8 people. The Dominion Theatre stands on the site of the ill-fated Horseshoe Brewery.
The Great London Fireworks Display
WRONG Beer was the drink of choice as the water was often unsafe. The demand led to brewers constructing huge vats as an economical way of producing the beverage. One such vat burst its hoops which in turn ruptured nearby vats. Eventually, more than 323,000 gallons became a tsunami drowning 8 people. The Dominion Theatre stands on the site of the ill-fated Horseshoe Brewery.
7. Which London cemetery is divided into a western half and an eastern half by Swains Lane?
Kensal Green
WRONG Perhaps the best-known cemetery in London, Highgate is the final resting place for many famous people, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and Michael Faraday.
Brompton
WRONG Perhaps the best-known cemetery in London, Highgate is the final resting place for many famous people, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and Michael Faraday.
Highgate
CORRECT Perhaps the best-known cemetery in London, Highgate is the final resting place for many famous people, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and Michael Faraday.
8. What is unusual about the memorial in Kensal Green Cemetery to the 19th-century circus performer Andrew Ducrow?
There is a marble elephant on the top of it
WRONG Originally decorated with stone sphinxes painted in bright colours that have since faded, Ducrow who was an equestrian performer and the proprietor of the famous Astley’s Amphitheatre in the middle of the 19th-century, has one of the most elaborate of all the mausoleums in Kensal Green Cemetery.
The inscription on it is written in Sanskrit
WRONG Originally decorated with stone sphinxes painted in bright colours that have since faded, Ducrow who was an equestrian performer and the proprietor of the famous Astley’s Amphitheatre in the middle of the 19th-century, has one of the most elaborate of all the mausoleums in Kensal Green Cemetery.
It is decorated with stone sphinxes
CORRECT Originally decorated with stone sphinxes painted in bright colours that have since faded, Ducrow who was an equestrian performer and the proprietor of the famous Astley’s Amphitheatre in the middle of the 19th-century, has one of the most elaborate of all the mausoleums in Kensal Green Cemetery.
9. Whose ‘auto-icon’ still sits in a glass-fronted case in University College, London, more than a century-and-a-half after he died?
Jeremy Bentham’s
CORRECT When moral philosopher Jeremy Bentham died in 1832, he left a will with specific instructions on the ‘disposal and preservation of the several parts of my bodily frame’. His skeleton was to be ‘clad in one of the suits of black occasionally worn by me’ and seated upright on a chair, under a placard reading ‘Auto Icon’. Bentham further suggested that his corpse might then be able to preside over regular meetings of his utilitarian followers. He attends every UCL Council meeting and is always recorded as ‘present but not voting’, except when the Council is split on a motion. On those rare occasions, he gets a vote, and always votes in favour of the motion, due to his mischievous personality.
John Stuart Mill’s
WRONG When moral philosopher Jeremy Bentham died in 1832, he left a will with specific instructions on the ‘disposal and preservation of the several parts of my bodily frame’. His skeleton was to be ‘clad in one of the suits of black occasionally worn by me’ and seated upright on a chair, under a placard reading ‘Auto Icon’. Bentham further suggested that his corpse might then be able to preside over regular meetings of his utilitarian followers. He attends every UCL Council meeting and is always recorded as ‘present but not voting’, except when the Council is split on a motion. On those rare occasions, he gets a vote, and always votes in favour of the motion, due to his mischievous personality.
Benjamin Disraeli’s
WRONG When moral philosopher Jeremy Bentham died in 1832, he left a will with specific instructions on the ‘disposal and preservation of the several parts of my bodily frame’. His skeleton was to be ‘clad in one of the suits of black occasionally worn by me’ and seated upright on a chair, under a placard reading ‘Auto Icon’. Bentham further suggested that his corpse might then be able to preside over regular meetings of his utilitarian followers. He attends every UCL Council meeting and is always recorded as ‘present but not voting’, except when the Council is split on a motion. On those rare occasions, he gets a vote, and always votes in favour of the motion, due to his mischievous personality.
10. What ‘first’ did Colonel Pierpoint admire before he died?
The first pedestrian crossing
WRONG At his expense in 1864 Colonel Pierpoint had London’s first traffic island constructed in St. James’s Street opposite his club in Pall Mall. On its completion, his excitement (and possible inebriation) encouraged him to dash across the road to admire his contribution to society. Alas, he was knocked down and killed by a passing cab.
The world’s first traffic island
CORRECT At his expense in 1864 Colonel Pierpoint had London’s first traffic island constructed in St. James’s Street opposite his club in Pall Mall. On its completion, his excitement (and possible inebriation) encouraged him to dash across the road to admire his contribution to society. Alas, he was knocked down and killed by a passing cab.
The first traffic light
WRONG At his expense in 1864 Colonel Pierpoint had London’s first traffic island constructed in St. James’s Street opposite his club in Pall Mall. On its completion, his excitement (and possible inebriation) encouraged him to dash across the road to admire his contribution to society. Alas, he was knocked down and killed by a passing cab.
CabbieBlog 