Not being a born and bred Londoner, the image of the Cockney has always been a bit a mystery to me.  Many people who live outside London used to believe that all Londoners were Cockneys, so when Londoners  start mentioning Bow Bells it gets even more confusing.

Dick Van Dyke (Not a real Cockney)

Did the Isle of Dogs folk see themselves as Cockney ? Well we could all soon be enlightened by going along to the Cockney Heritage Festival in July. In a comprehensive series of  talks ,  walks ,  Film screenings, Exhibitions and various other events  we can discover the diversity and history of Cockney Life.

Some of the highlights include a Danny Boyle curated showing of the classic film The Long Good Friday, talks by authors including Melanie McGrath and Jean Fullerton,  an exhibition about the Isle of Dogs by the Island History Trust  and of course various Pie and Mash tastings and Knees up.

Real Cockneys

I will be reporting back on some the events but if you live in London or are visiting in July  why not come along,  for a full list of events press here