Lazarus 0 Posted June 26, 2006 Share Posted June 26, 2006 You learn something new everyday For a short time in the 17th century, Newcastle exported large quantities of urine down the coast to Ravenscar, North Yorkshire, to be used in the production of alum (a dye fixative) for the textile industry [1]. The urine was collected from public urinals or barrels in the city and it has been suggested that this may be the origin of the popular (though mildly offensive) English phrase "taking the piss" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newcastle-upon-Tyne Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Fish 8977 Posted June 26, 2006 Share Posted June 26, 2006 ... ok I'll do it "That originated here?... are you taking the micky?" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hatful Of Hollow 0 Posted June 27, 2006 Share Posted June 27, 2006 Heard that on QI. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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