A CALL to fly the flag of St George around Ripon next week is being heeded by shops and businesses in the city.
Last week city councillor Kenn Hart called on people to show their colours and fly the flag on Wednesday – St George’s Day.
One of those inspired by Coun Hart was Ripon City Music manager Stefan Meadley who has decked out the windows of his Kirkga
te shop in red and white.
“We want to get Ripon behind the idea of St George’s Day,” he said. “There are so many other events which are promoted and surely St George’s Day should be one of them.
“A lot of people seem to dislike the idea of it getting overshadowed by St Patrick’s Day.”
Other businesses determined to do their bit include Sainsbury’s which has invited school pupils to learn about English products and staff encouraged to be wear red and white for the day.
The One Eyed Rat in Allhallowgate is holding a British week starting tomorrow to celebrate the Queen’s birthday and St George’s Day.
Sunday will see a yard of ale contest at 3pm along with a toast to St George from the Ripon Hornblower, George Pickles. The pub will also host a fancy dress evening on St George’s Day.
Coun Hart is pleased to see his call being answered. “I think it’s wonderful but long overdue to be honest,” he said.
“Let’s just show that the English can celebrate, even though it is in the middle of the week.”
Coun Hart will also be hosting his own St George’s Day event, including a dinner and fancy dress competition, at the Golden Lion in Allhallowgate on Wednesday. Call 01765 602598 for more details.
