Terming St. George's Day 'racist' angers UK town residents

London, Feb. 13 (ANI): Residents of West Bromwich in the West Midland have reacted angrily to a move to ban the celebration of St. George's Day.

The ban has reportedly imposed when a family charity event celebrating St. George's Day was termed 'racist.

Councilor Yvonne Davies claimed the parade created an "unhealthy atmosphere" and inspired young boys to be racist.

"It is not only the parade which is the problem, but the tribal excitement it creates," the Daily Star quoted Davies, as saying.

Sandwell Council in West Bromwich, voted to withdraw its financial support and left organizers with the "impossible" task of raising 10,000 pounds to cover costs.

"To suggest the parade is racist is ridiculous and offensive. When you see the kids, everyone out having fun, it is a beautiful sight. Everyone is welcome," said Trevor Collins, organizer of the Stone Cross Saint George Association.

"The council's decision means we have to foot the bills for insurance and security. We have got to come up with 10,000 pounds in two months, which seems impossible," Collins added.

The organizers said one of the aims of the event, held since 1998, is to reclaim the Saint George Cross from right-wingers and make it a source of pride.

"It is an outrageous decision. There is nothing racist about celebrating the day of the patron saint of England," said John Midgley, member of the Campaign Against Political Correctness.

The parade to be celebrated on April 23 involves 15,000 people, and is attended by ex-servicemen. (ANI)