I once met Quention Crisp, who used to describe himself as being " the stateley British Homo", many years ago in a bar in Pimlico, London. What a fascinating and learned gentleman he was! Earlier that day, he had visited the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square, London to apply for his entry visa to the United States.

The official there asked Quentin if he was a practising homosexual. Replied Quentin, in his usual inimitable manner "Practising? Practising? What are you talking about? I'm perfect!"

My favourite Crispian quote will always be "Don't try to keep up with the Jones's, bring them down to your level. It's cheaper!"

As a matter of interest, the name Quentin Crisp was a pseudonym: his real name was Dennis Pratt.