Heading the cast in our winter edition is chap hop superstar Mr. B The Gentleman Rhymer, who spills the beans on growing up in Hancock country, seventies sitcoms, his transition from 50s rockabilly to 80s hip hop and whether three-piece suits and plimsolls are acceptable. Other encounters include the former Chief Druid, tailor Edward Sexton, a war veteran who revitalised a leather factory, Lock & Co’s Master Hatter and the artist who revived the Colony Room as an art installation. We also hear Torquil Arbuthnot’s tales from the real Colony Room, recall comic Norman Wisdom, lover Giacomo Casanova, racing driver Goldie Gardner and a host of cinematic butlers, from Terry-Thomas to Alfred Pennyworth. The best-dressed chaps and chapettes at the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive are photographed, along with a view of the London to Brighton veteran car run. David Evans reviews Norman Foster shirts and visits an exhibition about the Beatles’ style, Rome’s eternal pleasures are considered, festive cocktails are mastered
