What a Pearly King taught me about Cockney rhyming slang and East London history

NPR News Thursday 01 October 2026, 14:13 UTC By Lauren Frayer 1 min read

Key Points

In mother-of-pearl suits, the Pearly Kings used to canvass East London for charity. The most famous one, George Major, died in August. A look back on this larger-than-life figure and the Pearly King tradition.(Image credit: Tony Kershaw)

(Image credit: Tony Kershaw)

East London (LOCATION) George Major (PERSON) Tony Kershaw (PERSON)

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What a Pearly King taught me about Cockney rhyming slang and East London history

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