Saturday 23 April is a time for celebration for England’s patron saint, but you might not know it in Salford.
Every year the displays get fewer and farther between, but there is a candidate who stands out this year.
The best display we’ve heard of so far is planned at The Brindley Arms on Whittle Street in Walkden.
The word ‘England’ has been shaved into the lawn outside, and the pub itself is a riot of flags and colour.
Sarah, whose mum and dad Anne and Colin Hamblett run the popular boozer, said “My mum and dad have always celebrated St George’s Day from as young as I can remember.
“Past celebrations before my parents had a pub have included BBQ’s, bouncy castles and music.
“I can always remember my dad going out on St Georges Day morning to buy a fresh red rose to wear.”
“Everyone is very positive about celebrating when we mention it,” said Sarah, “although some people aren’t actually aware of our country’s national day.”
Because it’s not a Bank Holiday, does the day hold less significance than St Patrick’s Day, for example?
Or even a national day like St Andrew’s Day in Scotland, or St David’s Day in Wales?
“When it is nearing the 23rd April we all eagerly await to hear about the plans my mum and dad have for the day,” said Sarah.
“This year is the biggest we have organised with bouncy castles, magic man, music, hog roast, popcorn, candy floss plus lots more.
“It’s all about getting the community together in a positive way to enjoy each other’s company, getting to know our neighbours and just having a good time.”
Salford City Council told us they had no official events planned this year to honour the dragon slayer.
By contrast, in Manchester, it’s already party time.
Sunday 24 April sees a parade in red and white through the streets of central Manchester, helped by costumed kings, queens, jesters, jugglers and drummers.
By Peeler2007 via Flickr
The two-hour round-trip walk starts on Varley Street at 11.45am heading through Piccadilly and up round towards Ancoats, before finishing back on Varley Street.
For the drinkers among us, Joseph Holt pubs are offering 20p off the price of draught beer from today until 12 midnight on Sunday 24 April.
In 2015 Swinton Civic Centre flew the red and white St George’s flag over Chorley Road, while numerous local schools, including St George’s Primary School on Concord Place, held themed assemblies with children dressed as knights and dragons.
Send your St George’s Day party pictures to newsdesk@salfordonline.com, post in our Facebook group or tweet us @salfordonline.
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