Cynthia Payne was born in Bognor Regis, West Sussex and was a renowned English party hostess who made the headlines in the 1970’s and 80’s when she was accused of being a madam and running a brothel at Ambleside Avenue in Streatham, south-west London. In 1978 she was convicted of running "the biggest disorderly house in history", for which she was sent to prison for 18 months. This was reduced to six months on appeal. Her parties were famous for, amongst other things, their luncheon vouchers which were purportedly given to guests who exchanged them for services with prostitutes. The charge was £25 which included food, drink and sex…a bargain if ever there was one!On the occasion of this photo, Cynthia was invited to cut the ribbon at the official opening of Bang night club in Streatham; sister club to the successful West-End establishment. Fortunately for The Goddess, luncheon vouchers did not come into the equation and when asked by Cynthia if she would like to come and work for her, Millie was heard to say; ‘Cynthia, I can just about give it away, never mind sell it!’.
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