South Tyneside celebrates St George's Day with flags, pies and fancy dress

And after months of lockdown, pubs in particular are getting into the swing, offering punters special deals and the promise of fun to celebrate the occasion.

Dougie’s Tavern in Blackett Street, Hebburn, is among the venues pulling out all the stops to mark the day, covering the venue’s new outdoor seating area in flags – and inviting customers to come in fancy dress.

Pub boss Norman Scott promised live music from Taylor Payne starting at around 6pm, as well as a DJ set during the day.

He said: “I have celebrated St George’s Day every year since I have been in the pub game.

"A few things will be a bit different this year because of the restrictions, but there will still be music on, although not too loud!

"We have around 37 people who have said they will be dressing up on the day and we will give a free shot to anyone who comes in fancy dress.

"I think it is going to be a good day.”

The venue’s 40 outdoor tables have nearly all been booked up by punters keen to mark the day, although there is some space for walk-ins.

The venue will be open from 11am to 10pm and food will be available.

The Marsden Inn, South Shields, has also gone all out with bunting for the occasion and is offering food and drink deals which include pie, mash and a pint of John Smiths for £6 or bangers and mash for the same price.

Pub boss Michael Ward said he feels it’s important to mark St George’s Day. He said: "St George is the patron saint of England and was also a Roman soldier.

"South Shields has a huge connection to the Romans and it’s important to keep these traditions alive and remember our heritage.”

Meanwhile South Tyneside Council has confirmed that it will be flying three flags from the centre poles of the Town Hall to mark St George’s Day.

St George’s Day has been observed in England since the early 15th century, and at that time was considered as important as Christmas.

St George became the patron saint of England after being chosen by King Edward III for his bravery in the face of terrible suffering.

He is also the patron saint of Scouting and traditionally South Tyneside Scouts would mark the day with a parade in the borough, however with Covid-19 restrictions this has not been able to go ahead as planned.

Instead some Scout groups will come together online to mark the day.

Shelagh Robson, South Tyneside Scouts District Commissioner, said: “Unfortunately South Tyneside Scouts have not been able to arrange our traditional celebration to commemorate St George's day due to Covid-19 restrictions.

"Although we are disappointed to have this event cancelled for a second year, we are grateful for the support of our volunteers who have kept our young people involved in the organisation, embracing technologies and moving meetings online.

"Some groups will commemorate the day online and we all look forward to next year when we can celebrate together.”

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