Off Licences

Well I can make up for two or three teetotalers

 

Did off licences not keep the same hours as pubs? I can't remember.

 

I visited an off licence whilst visiting there. Over here we call betting shops that are not at the casinos/racetracks, off track. So when I was there several times I walked by one with a big sign, and thinking it was a betting place didn't give it more than a glance. However one right next to my hotel had window displays of non booze items so I went in and discovered it was a variety store that also had the evening elixirs.

I purchased a couple of cans of beer and enjoyed a relaxing evening with the East Enders and various other telly pub people before retiring that night The beer was icy. And since I don't often drink beer, it made it a lovely experience.

I had no reference point for pricing as far as whether they were competitive or not so cannot comment.

I did stop at a pub in Harrow on my last night spent near the airport to come home. I wanted just a half a pint because it was a long walk back to the B&B and a private loo. After waiting 15 minutes to place my request and just as the bartender approached me, a woman interrupted to get refills for her table. She reminded me of Ena Sharples so I just left. She had at least 50 pounds advantage and I may be a tower of a woman but half a pint wasn't worth a beating. We have our Enas here too but tney usually have a Canuck accent

So I went to the local grocery, a big place (Waitrose or one of those, a posh place) and bought a can of beer which I took back to my room.

But back to the question. Your off licence are just fine with me

 

I can remember buying booze on Saturday afternoons when the pubs were closed. I can't remember anything else.

 

Teetotal, now that's a strange word, must look up what that means.

Found this a while back in a drawer.

 

I think anyone contemplating becoming a Teetotaler, should know that when you wake up in the morning, that is the best you are going to feel all day.

 

It was my grandfather's British army in India 1897.
You probably remember it?

 

Teetotallers: I know for a fact that they have them in Ireland. I've met both of them!

Off Licences: All we have here, and they are state owned and run. Best idea ever! All we need are proper pubs!

Ena Sharples: I met her once, she was such a lovely person, as long as she was addressed as Miss Carson. For those that are not aware, her correct name was Violet Carson.

 

We also used to collect bottles to get the deposits back from our local off licence. I can remember collecting big empty cider (Woodpecker?) bottles with rubber stoppers. Local building sites were a rich source of empties, no such thing as security fencing or no alcohol on site in those days.