The government talks a lot about addiction to crack cocaine and heroin – but I have never seen anyone write about – the addictive substances – known by their street name – ‘Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts’. Pushed by a gang – headed by a master criminal Bertie – these innocent packages – of what look like – ordinary bag of sweets – are highly addictive – and once a bag is open – there is no stopping an ‘Allsort’ binge – until the bag is empty.
These substances are seen in many forms – such as ‘coconut’ yellows – white and brown ‘slices’ – blue nodules – and sometimes the ‘little blue man’. Each one looking totally innocent. However once in the mouth – softly sucked – there is an urge to get the next one – and the next one – and the next one.
These ‘Allsorts’ are sold through a network of dealers – fronting what look like legitimate businesses – however for the addict they are easy to spot – and – there is a growing attempt to expand the number of addicts – by placing packets – near checkouts – and – special offers – such as the notorious ‘two for one’ offer.
Does the Priory have a special ‘Allsort’ dry out section – no! Does the Health Service provide any get off Bassett support schemes – No! Can my doctor write a prescription for ‘Dolly Mixtures’ to get me down gently – well – No! So I am a confirmed addict – and unlikely ever to get off.