Chester will celebrate St. George's Day later this month with a lively roaming street performance through the city centre.

Festivities will take place on Thursday 23 April, beginning at 11am in Chester Town Hall Square. 

The event will feature a theatrical retelling of the St George legend, as local schoolchildren take part in a mock tournament to choose a knight to slay the dragon and rescue a princess.

The performance, hosted and funded by the Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Sherin Akhtar, will travel through the city centre, stopping at key locations including Eastgate Street and Chester Cross.

Local artist Russell Kirk has been commissioned to reimagine the traditional tale, promising a version with "Chester-specific twists" and a touch of humour.

Children from several primary schools, including Upton Heath, Mill View, Grosvenor Park and Upton Westlea, will take part as trainee knights, joined by performers acting as minstrels and jesters.

Cllr Akhtar revealed how the performance reflects her civic theme of "Pride in Place" and aims to bring the city's history to life.

"By taking the story of St. George onto the streets of Chester and involving local performers and schools, the event celebrates Chester's rich heritage and the shared traditions that unite our communities," she said.

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"The lively outdoor performance invites residents and visitors alike to connect with the city's past, take pride in our cultural identity, and enjoy a creative celebration that showcases the spirit and character of Chester."

The event will begin with a procession from Town Hall Square, followed by a series of challenges testing the knights' sword and archery skills, before culminating in a final dragon-slaying battle back at the Town Hall.

Buildings across Chester will also be lit in red and white to mark the occasion, with the St George's flag flying from civic buildings throughout the day.

Russel Kirk added: "If you thought you knew the St. George legend, think again - as we prepare to reveal the 'nearly true' story."