War will break out this week at the St George’s Weekend in Long Sutton, but it’s all in the name of family fun as the town holds its fourth extravaganza to celebrate England’s patron saint.
English Civil War reenactment group The Trayned Bands will take part in the town’s biggest parade so far as well as recreate life lived by soldiers in The New Model Army when they set up camp at Cinder Ash Field.
St George’s Weekend is organised by EELS (Events and Entertainment in Long Sutton) and they have splashed out £5,000 so everyone in the town can enjoy a free party.
EELS secretary Bobbie Ashton said: “There are families here that have three or four children and we wanted to give them an event with no entry fee.
“If they don’t wish to, they don’t have to spend any money – they can bring their picnics along.”
The parade starts from the fire station at 10am on Saturday, winding its way to the field where there will be two days of entertainment.
Brand new in the parade this year is a 24ft long, 14ft high dragon – and it will breathe smoke.
There will be 1960s scooters, classic motor bikes, Army Cadets, Town Crier Charles Moore, a float from Long Sutton in Bloom, and more.
The parade is expected to arrive in the field between 11am-12pm, when Channel 4’s Time Team star Francis Pryor will officially open the event.
At 12.30pm there will be an X-Factor style competition for young singers.
Other weekend attractions include a live theatre with The Wizard of Oz, DJ Matt “RV” Harvey, a children’s funfair, Holbeach Brass Band and displays of classic and vintage vehicles.