WHAT a joy to see people of all ages and nationalities celebrating England's national day in the way that we have been promoting for well over 10 years both in Swindon and throughout Wiltshire. A man seated behind me on the bus going home asked if I had been in the square (Wharf Green) and said in a strong Scottish accent: "I've had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed the day." Thus proving you don't have to be English to enjoy celebrating St George's Day. For years many of us have enjoyed celebrating St Patrick's Day on March 17, which is a Bank Holiday in Northern Ireland, thus allowing them to celebrate in style every year. Over the past few years the call from the general public to make St George's Day a public holiday has grown considerably and petitions by various organisations have been established in an attempt to bring this about. Millions of people have signed these petitions and those wishing to sign can do so on The Royal Society of St George website or email to info@royalsocietyofstgeorge.com.

The Royal marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton was a truly spectacular and joyous occasion last Friday and put a huge smile on almost all our faces, making us feel proud and patriotic and why should it not? There is enough doom and gloom in the world at present but their happy day spread joy throughout the world to millions whatever colour, creed or religion they may be. You did not have to be English or British to enjoy it and neither do you have to be English to celebrate England's national day nor belong to The Royal Society of St George, as all are welcome whatever colour, creed or religion they may be. We have 46 branches outside England, with as many members worldwide as nationally. For more information on our Wiltshire Branch of the society contact Lloyd James 01793 638274 or myself on 01793 638274.

PAT WALLINGTON Secretary The Royal Society of St George Wiltshire Branch