Although one of the lesser-celebrated saints' days in the UK, there's no doubt patriotic Teessiders take St George's Day to heart
Gallery: St George's Day - Past
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Although one of the lesser-celebrated saints' days in the UK, there's no doubt patriotic Teessiders take St George's Day to heart.
Over the years, we at the Evening Gazette have seen some impressive parade turnouts for the April 23 celebration of England’s heritage - as well as some more interesting ways to mark the occasion.
St George, the patron saint of England, is best known for his fight with a dragon.
From the early 15th century, a major feast and celebration day has been held in his honour although this tradition waned by the end of the 18th century following the union of England and Scotland.
And, even though celebrations today remain generally low-key, patriotic Teessiders have ensured the spirit of St George lives on.
Every year, hundreds of scouts join together to parade through towns.
And retired Grangetown firefighter Tony Hey has become something of a legend himself with his propensity to swap his uniform for chainmail and his fire engine for a horse - and parade through the streets.
Starting his own tradition in 2009, Tony sets off astride his horse for his annual display of patriotism.
In 2011, Tony said: “I just think St George’s Day is something we should celebrate. The Irish, Welsh and Scottish mark their special day, so why shouldn’t English people?”
Also in 2009, revellers at a Stockton bar enjoyed a whacky jousting tournament for a St George’s Day charity fundraiser.
The event, at Georgia Browns, on Dovecot Street, was organised to raise money for the Help For Heroes fund which supports wounded British servicemen and women.
The jousting saw horses replaced with space hoppers, and jousters used boxing gloves on poles in place of lances.
Pub-goers in fancy dress placed bets on the tournament before digging into a hog roast.
The day has not been without its controversy though.
In 2005, Teesside MPs backed calls for the day to be celebrated more widely. But only one - Vera Baird - could recall the date of St George’s Day.
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