HE MAY have slain a dragon and rescued a princess, but a mere footbridge proved too much for St George as he paraded through the town centre this weekend.

The 20ft-tall model of England’s patron saint had to be carried unceremoniously on his back under the Brunel Shopping Centre as he led a procession from Regent Circus to Wharf Green for Saturday’s celebrations.

Hundreds turned out to see the parade and entertainment laid on by local groups, including the Britannia Majorettes and Swindon Air Cadets. Spectators also enjoyed classical, rock and pop music throughout the afternoon and saw a range of entertainers such as the Swindon samba band and Bollywood dancers.

There was also a play recreating the legend of St George’s slaying of the dragon.

Organiser Kirsty Heber-Smith said: “It was a colourful, four-hour extravaganza which created a carnival-like atmosphere and transformed the town centre into a sea of red and white.

“Aside from the procession, numerous attractions, entertainment and events took place at various places around the town centre.

“Attractions ranged from face painting to the Big Sing Thing, fairground rides, and a chance to try out juggling.

“It was nice to see so many turn out for it and that the sun was out too. It brought everybody together.”

She added: “Getting St George under the bridge on his back has become a bit of a tradition since it happened the first year.”

The celebration, was in support of the Mayor of Swindon, councillor Ray Ballman, and her chosen charities Open Door, Football in the Community, The Rowdy Bunch and Swindon Rotary Club.

She said: “It was terrific – it’s such a great way of bringing the community together. And the sun was shining; what more could you want?”

l The Kentwood Show Choir will perform a St George’s Day charity concert at the Civic Offices, in Euclid Street, tonight at 8.15pm. Tickets cost £10 and proceeds go to the mayor’s charities.