St George's Day Revellers Take Over Trafalgar Square

Flag-wrapped patriots and latterday dragon-slayers descended on Trafalgar Square in London, vowing to eat and drink for England.

Events to mark St George's Day, honouring the English patron saint and bane of dragons, included the installation of a banqueting table seating 250 people in the central London square, set between the fountains and decked out with bunting in red, white and blue.

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said the day offered "a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the very best of what England has to offer, from music to theatre to film".

Top chefs including double Michelin-starred Paul Merrett gave cookery demonstrations, while an al fresco farmers' market offered produce from around the country, with jugglers and jesters performing entertainments for the young.

A five metre-high dragon formed the centrepiece of the attraction, with croquet matches played on the fringes, and music courtesy of the English medievalists Princes in the Tower.

"This year we're focusing on food. London offers a one-stop shop, a smorgasbord of mouth-watering food from around the world, but our Feast of St George is a chance to savour some of the tasty delights that originate closer to home, accompanied by great entertainment," Johnson added.

"From pies and mash to scotch eggs and hog roasts, there's something for all tastes, plus the chance to pick up some cooking tips from fine chefs. Happy St George's Day!"

St George's Day officially falls on Tuesday 23 April.