St George’s Day 'should be celebrated with pride'

5:30pm Wednesday 16th April 2008

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PUBS across Waltham Forest are gearing up to celebrate St George's day on Wednesday.

Reporter Dean Valler spoke to pub organisers looking forward to a knees-up - and shopowners who don't even know what St George's Day is.

Drinkers at one Waltham Forest pub have got the bunting up and the flags unfurled ready for St George's Day - and they are hoping to raise a bumper amount of cash for charity.

The Royal Oak, in Hale End Road, Highams Park, is holding a St George's Day party on Wednesday, including a live band, raffle, and patriotic sing-song.

Organiser Carol Burton, who is behind the event with partner Mark Baker, said: "The night is going to have a good old-fashioned East London feel to it and we all can't wait.

"We have been holding several different events over the past few years and have been fund-raising for Haven House children's hospice. We hope to present it with a £3,000 cheque later this year."

At 1pm on Saturday at Chingford Rugby Club, Waltham Way, a team from the Royal Oak will be taking on a veterans side from the rugby club with all proceeds to Haven House.

Mrs Burton, who lives in Brettenham Road, Walthamstow, said thanks to Paul Taylor, who plays for Chingford Rugby Club, for helping to organise the event.

She added: "We want as many people as possible to come along and support us and help us get the St George's Day festivities off to a barn-storming start."

Over at Station House pub, Station Road, Chingford, staff are preparing to welcome pensioners for dinner, bingo and a sing-along from 1pm.

Landlady Teresa Davis said said: "I have been running pubs for 20 years and I have always celebrated St George's Day, as well as St David's, St Andrew's and St Patrick's."

The pub is also holding a 60s party on Wednesday night.

It hopes to raise up to £500 for Macmillan Cancer Support to add to £1,500 already collected.