The History of St George’s Day
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In 1222 the Council of Oxford declared April 23rd to be St George’s Day
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It was not until 1348 that St George became the Patron Saint of England
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In 1415, St George’s Day was declared a national feast day and holiday in England
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However, after the union with Scotland at the end of the 18th Century, the tradition
diminished and since has not been widely acknowledged and is no longer a national holiday
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Traditional customs were to fly the St George’s flag and wear a red rose in one’s lapel
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The hymn ‘Jerusalem’ was also sung on the 23rd April, or the nearest Sunday to that date, in
churches across the nation
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The 23 April 1616 was also the date of the death of the English playwright William
Shakespeare. UNESCO marked this historic date by declaring it the International Day of the Book.
All things English:
England’s most popular sport is also the globe’s favourite game. Watched and
adored by billions worldwide, football could be described as an international
language, a religion for some and a true love for many.
This fierce and fantastic game is nearly two hundred years old and is one of the
most exciting spectator sports around. In 1823 a pupil at Rugby school in
Warwickshire was playing a game of football when he suddenly picked up the ball
and ran towards the opposition’s goal. England won the Rugby World Cup in
2003
This traditional gentleman’s game is deeply rooted in English heritage, and is
enjoyed worldwide.
There are references to cricket being played in England during the 1500s
England won back to back Ashes tournaments in 2009 & 2010
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1945854.stm - quick simple quiz on St George Facts
http://www.funtrivia.com/playquiz/quiz736218702e0.html
All things English – Recipes
How many have you tried?
Stilton Soup with Parmesan Croutons
Old English Summer Soup
Kipper Pate
Pork Pies
Cornish Pasties
Roast Beef
Cottage Pie
Toad in the Hole
Steak and Kidney Pie
Beef Wellington
Fish, chips and mushy peas
Victoria sponge
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Spotted Dick
Eccles Cakes
Flapjacks
How many can you name?