Grand Order of Water Rats
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The Grand Order of Water Rats is an entertainment industry charity based in London, England.
The Water Rats were founded in 1889 by comedian Joe Elvin. The first King Rat, as the head of the charity is termed, was music hall singer Harry Freeman. Legendary comedian Dan Leno was an early King Rat in 1891. The post is for one year.
Membership is limited to 200 long serving members of the industry. Some are household names but many are not. The present King Rat is Kaplan Kaye (2006). Current members include: Norman Wisdom, Lionel Blair, Frank Bruno, Frank Carson, Barry Cryer, Paul Daniels, Brian May, and Nicholas Parsons. Ordinary members of the public can become a Friend of the Water Rats.
The charity raises money by organising shows, lunches, dinners and other events. The objects of the charity are “To relieve or assist in the relief of poor or necessitous members of the Grand Order of Water Rats and widows and dependants of such members…” additional funds raised go to a diverse range of charities and good causes including hospitals, health charities and benevolent funds.
Their headquarters is based at the Water Rats pub in Grays Inn Road in King's Cross, London.
