There are a few further references in the Roud Folk Song Index, at number 2854. The English examples are all from Sussex, the earliest being, I suppose, of the mid 19th century. The little ceremony described is much the same in all accounts. I'd best mention, though, that the 'liquor' was invariably beer.

Although there seem to be no records of customs in other parts of the country associated with this particular rhyme, it may very well have been more widespread at one time. Similar customs persist to this day, of course; accompanied usually by chanting or clapping rather than singing, so far as I remember from my student days.