St. George's Day turned out to be quite eventful for the Black Knight.

Ian was invited into the studios at North Norfolk Radio for a live lunchtime interview with Presenter Dick Hutchinson on the topic of Saint George.

Listeners found out that our legendary Patron Saint is an interesting juxtaposition of many legends. He never came to England and was promoted to no.1 saint by Edward III with the founding of the Order of the Garter in 1348.



Ian briefly went through the legend- touching on George being born in Cappadocia, [modern-day Turkey] in the 4th century, being a Roman soldier and a Christian, being persecuted under an Emperor called Dacian [probably Diocletian], refusing to sacrifice to Roman gods and being tortured and executed.

The other half of the story- the popular bit- about the Dragon, comes from Libya and the various components were whisked together to give the legend we know today.

The most impressive pieces of art from the Middle Ages often depicted St George; check out the 'Valencia Altarpiece' in the V&A museum in London, or the lifesize statue of St George, dragon and maiden in the Styrkirke, Stockholm. Possibly my favourite pieces of medieval art! Certainly in my top ten.

Rounding off the broadcast Ian recited the Harfleur speech from Henry V - with special inflection on the last line 'Cry God for Harry, England & St. George!'

On arriving home Ian gets a late call-up to the special showing of Laurence Olivier's 'Henry V' at Cinema City, Norwich, dressed as St George. General Manager Fraser Scott was delighted with Ians performance on the front steps of the cinema and many car drivers hooted in appreciation as they drove past!

Ian is planning more St. George events in Norwich in the future. Keep an eye on the website for more details!