Andy - it is an old timey cocktail:)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Collins
The Tom Collins is a cocktail and a variation on a Gin Sour. It is made of:
two parts gin
one part freshly squeezed lemon juice
drizzle of sugar spirit
chilled soda water to taste
sprig of fresh mint
Mix the first three ingredients in a tall glass with ice, then top up with soda water and garnish with mint.
Nowadays, commercial "sweet and sour" is often used as a replacement for the sugar and lemon juice.
Various versions replace the gin and rename the drink:
Brandy Collins (Brandy)
Jack Collins (Applejack)
John Collins (Bourbon)
Mike Collins (Irish whiskey)
Pedro Collins (Rum), also Rum Collins
Sandy (or Jock) Collins (Scotch)
Comrade Collins (Vodka), also Vodka Collins
Jos� Collins (Tequila)