The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu celebrated St George’s Day outside York Minster at midday yesterday Monday 2 May.
The carillon at York Minster was ringing out tunes such as ‘I vow to thee my country’ and ‘Rule Britannia’ from midday. Dr. John Ridgeway-Wood, one of the UK’s leading carillonneurs, had kindly agreed to play.
The Archbishop encouraged people to enjoy the extra day of celebration with him in singing and flying the flag of St George.
Writing previously for a national newspaper, Dr Sentamu explained: “As someone who loves St George, I have long campaigned for us to have a special holiday where we can celebrate our Patron Saint and all that is great about our wonderful nation.”
He added: “Very few people seem aware that this year, thanks to the Church, we are allowed a rare double celebration.” The Archbishop encouraged people to join him outside York Minster where he collected donations on behalf of the Help for Heroes charity at the event.