'Be proud' - South Shields pub champions St George's Day celebration - charity fundraiser set
South Shields pub, The Steamboat, is getting decked out for St George’s Day, all in the name of charity.
A South Tyneside pub plans to rally the troops to celebrate England’s patron saint while raising cash for an ex-servicemen's charity.
Bosses at The Steamboat hope punters will raise a glass – and several hundred pounds - for South Shields-based Veterans Response CIC on St George’s Day.
Veterans Response was founded in 2013 and supports former service personnel in making a smooth transition from military to civilian life.
When will the event take place?
Event supporters are being urged to gather at the Mill Dam boozer from 4pm on Thursday, April 23, to enjoy a drink, live music and raffles and other fun events.
Star attraction is singer Terry Gorman, whose catalogue of cover versions includes The Beatles, The Kinks and The Rolling Stones.
But there will be plenty more on offer – and the pub will also be decorated with St George’s crosses and dragon images.
Licensee Kathleen Brain, 46, said it was important St George’s Day was celebrated and that funds could be raised for a good cause.
She added: “The other home nations celebrate their saints day and yet the English seem a little apprehensive about doing that.
“We should be proud to celebrate our country’s patron saint and if we can support a charity while doing so, all the better.
“There is nothing wrong with marking the day and The Steamboat always does just that bit in a very fun and enjoyable way.
“The pub will be decked out with St George imagery, and we even have some blow up dragon costumes, which may lead to some fun races taking place.”
‘Very good work in South Tyneside’
She added: “Veterans Response does some very good work in South Tyneside, and I’m delighted that this pub is able to do its bit for it.
“I hope to see plenty of our regulars here to support this special day and that many other people will pop in for a drink and join our fun and games.
“There is no charge to come along, and our customers can also enjoy some very English tunes from Terry.”
Veterans Response founder Ian Driver, 60, said he welcomed the fundraiser, and added: “It’s fantastic that The Steamboat is supporting our work.
“All money raised is very much appreciated and will go back into supporting our activities.”