EPPING PROUDLY CELEBRATES St. GEORGE’S DAY

This evening I have had the pleasure of joining Epping Forest’s MP, Eleanor Laing and the Rev’d Geoffrey Connor at a St. George’s Day Concert at St. John’s Church in Epping. As Mayor, I actually introduced the concert as a way of marking England’s national day last year, as I didn’t believe nearly enough was being done to remind people of what it is to be English, as opposed to British or European. I also introduced a shop window decoration competition, which it has been great to see many businesses take part in again this year.

Next year I hope to grow these events further by reintroducing the St. George’s Day parade through Epping High Street. It is absolutely right that we celebrate England’s rich heritage and have as many people as possible join us in doing so.

One point so many residents have made recently is that they believe St. George’s Day should be a Bank Holiday, as I wholeheartedly agree. It was great to hear Mrs. Laing agree to and better still, to hear that David Cameron is examining plans to do so, should he be elected on May 6th. He has said today: “Let us say, loudly and proudly, from this point on, we should always properly celebrate St George’s Day”.

EPPING’S OLDEST PUB GOES ONLINE

The Black Lion, so called since 1755, is the oldest Tavern in Epping, dating back to the 17th Century and is reputed to have connections with Dick Turpin. Recently, under new management, the Black Lion has under gone complete refurbishment, however the oak beams and open fires still remain.

The Public Bar now has a plasma screen with daily sky sports available and the Saloon Bar will have regular live music at weekends (see events page for details). The ale house also boasts a new late licence, which allows them to remain open until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. The rear of the pub is has a covered heated patio area for smokers and plenty of parking, as well as elite taxi service situated right next door. To visit the new site, please click here.