Who, What, Why: How is Keith Richards still alive?

According to addiction expert Dr Robert Lefever, director of the Promis recovery centre in Richards’ native Kent, there is only one possible explanation for his longevity: “He must have the constitution of an ox.”

.. In his book, he acknowledges that his wealth allowed him to ingest a higher quality of substances than the typical drug user.

But he adds: “I was very meticulous about how much I took. I’d never put more in to get a little higher.

.. “It’s the greed involved that never really affected me. People think once they’ve got this high, if they take some more they’re going to get a little higher. There’s no such thing. Especially with cocaine.

.. “Still, it’s not as though any children are going to think he’s a good example. Just look at him: He’s got a face like a prune’s wallet.”