Festival to celebrate St George and Roman heritage

A free two-day festival is set to take place in Leicester to celebrate both St George's Day and the city's Roman heritage.

A large replica Roman forum will be constructed and disassembled in Jubilee Square in the space of 48 hours during the Old Town Festival on 26 and 27 April.

Visitors will also have the chance to encounter a fire breathing dragon, learn about the archaeology of Roman Leicester and meet costumed characters including knights, jesters, wizards and centurions.

Events will take place at Leicester Cathedral, the Cathedral Gardens and Leicester Guildhall as well as Jubilee Square between 10:00 BST and 17:00 on both days.

The construction of the forum will be led by artist Olivier Grossetête, who specialises in large-scale constructions using only cardboard and sticky tape.

Participants will start by creating key elements of the structure, such as arches and balconies, before working as a team to join the pieces together.

Organisers have said St George and the Roman empire are more linked than many people might expect.

"St George was likely a Roman soldier from 3rd Century Cappadocia, now Turkey," a spokesperson said.

"His bravery inspired legends, especially the famous tale of him slaying a dragon. While the story is likely symbolic, St George is still seen as a hero of faith and courage.

"He became the patron saint of England and many other places and his red cross on a white background remains a national symbol today."

The event has been organised by Leicester City Council alongside BID Leicester, Global Streets, Arts Council England, Highcross Leicester, Haymarket Shopping Centre and Hidden Histories.

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