Ruth is Stranger Than Fiction

Episode 20 - Tom Hickathrift, East Anglian Giant


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This time we’re tackling one of the big boys of East Anglian lore - perhaps the biggest boy there is! It’s the legend of Tom Hickathrift, the giant of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk. Known for his amazing feats of strength and bravery (and possibly his drinking ability), Tom has stomped his way through the oral history and folklore of the region for many a year. Katy brings a giant sized breakfast drink (surprisingly meaty) and new guest Rob Levy creates our punniest cocktail yet. Can we muddle our way through the stories and booze to find the truth behind the legend?

Illustration by John D. Batten. From More English Fairy Tales by Joseph Jacobs, first published in 1894.

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Ruth is Stranger Than FictionBy Ruth McPhee


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