Town celebrates St George's Day

The flag of St George is being flown at the Parish Church at St Chad's.

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Rochdale residents, businesses and community groups are celebrating patron saints day by flying the flag of St George today (Thursday 23 April).

Flags are being flown proudly at the Town Hall, while many businesses and homes across the town are also joining in the St George's Day celebrations.

Rochdale Online photographers have been out capturing the spirit of England's Patron Saints day.

Rochdale marked St George’s Day with the raising of the flag outside the Town Hall this morning. Leader of Rochdale Council, Councillor Alan Taylor, was joined by fellow Councillors and members of the public on a glorious sunshine filled day for the celebrations.

Council Leader Alan Taylor, who wore a red rose especially for the event, said: “The raising of the St George’s flag is a lovely tradition to pass on to future generations in our town. It’s important that the younger members of our society learn exactly what St George’s Day is about as well as how other cultures celebrate their own special days. I was proud to be chosen to raise the flag today and I look forward to attending this event again next year.”

Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion Councillor Mohammed Sharif said: “Rochdale has proven over the years to be a tolerant place that enthusiastically celebrates its diversity whether it is Eid, St Patrick’s Day, or Bangladeshi Independence Day. St George’s day is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate and show pride in our culture, society and history. I look forward to celebrating other cultural days throughout the year.”

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen’s Office on Drake Street was also a sea of red and white today as Rochdale celebrates St George’s Day.

Mr Rowen said: “Some people believe that the fact that St George was born in a different country it means that he doesn’t represent England. However, for me, England is about the wonderful diversity of the people who live here and there is no better place to show this than Rochdale. It is only by coming together and celebrating our diversity and collective achievements that we can reclaim our national pride from the far-right who seek to subvert it."

The St George’s Flag was also seen to be flying from many cars, pubs and homes across the town.

Terry Mason Car Sales is one of many businesses flying the flag of St George. Marilyn Mason, from the Mellor Street car dealership, said: "We've got our flags out for St George and we hope that the rest of Rochdale has too!"