|
Christchurch set to celebrate St George's Day
Bells will peel and toasts will be raised when Christchurch officially celebrates St George’s Day for the first time in recent history.
On 23 April the ancient Borough will be holding a number of events to commemorate the occasion, including the Mayor toasting the patron saint of England from the balcony of the Mayor’s Parlour at 2pm.
This will be followed by councillors handing out glasses of English beer (or apple juice for non-drinkers and younger people) to passers-by outside the old town hall and a chance to indulge in an English cream tea in the Mayor’s Parlour. Local historian Michael Hodges will lead a walk which will explore the historical ‘dragons’ of Christchurch.
The day starts with an English breakfast at Kelly’s Kitchen in the High Street and continues with a coffee morning being held by Mudeford Lifeboat Guild at Highcliffe Sailing Club at Mudeford Quay from 10.00am to 12.00 noon.
The Priory church will ring its bells from 1.30pm before the Mayor’s toast and the Priory will be illuminated during the evening.
The Nelson in Mudeford will be running a St George’s Day quiz in the evening and It is hoped that other local businesses will take part by holding special St George’s events.
The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg, said: “Originally one of the Saxon burghs (boroughs) set up to defend England, Christchurch has a tremendous history. Recognising England’s patron saint’s day gives us the opportunity to celebrate this.
“Another aim is to brighten up our town centres and to encourage residents to support our local businesses and eateries. We hope people will join us in the celebrations!”
Tickets for the cream tea in the Mayor’s Parlour will be available, priced £4.50, from Christchurch Information Centre in the High Street. All profits will go to the fund for the New Druitt Community Centre.
|
