Death Or Glory Wassail

This modern folk song arose in the Trunch area in response to the increasing number of inhabitants ignorant of local customs. Their refusal to answer the door to wassailers led to the formation of the Special Wassail Squad, whose song this is.

Death Or Glory Wassail appears on Sid's album Boiled In The Bag

Wassail, wassail, we know you're about,

Though you sit in the dark and pretend that you're out.

If you're thinking of calling the police to give chase,

Just who do you think is singing the bass?

      Wassail, wassail, all over the town,

      We are all wassailers of fame and renown;

      Open your door, and fill up our cup,

      Or we'll sing through your letter box until you cough up.

Wassail, wassail, that you may believe

'Tis more blesséd to give than it is to receive.

The more that you give the more blessed are you;

The more we receive the less damage we'll do.

Wassail, wassail, all over your garden;

If we've done any damage then we beg your pardon.

We're sorry to call upon you so late,

But we had to pick the lock on your gate.

Wassail, wassail, with a crisp ten pound note

We could all drink your health down at the Old Goat;

If you haven't a tenner two fivers will do;

If not things don't look very healthy for you.

Wassail, wassail, all over for now,

Now you've seen sense we will make no more row.

Peace be upon you all at your repose,

And we'll come no more nigh you until the pubs close.

Copyright Chris Sugden, 1993