THE first ever civic St George's Day celebrations staged in Bromsgrove had patriotic townsfolk waving flags and tapping their feet to well loved traditional tunes.

Last Thursday afternoon's activities in High Street was provided by Bromsgrove District Council to mark England's patron saint's day.

In what was being treated as a forerunner for an annual celebration, the entertainment included Bromsgrove's town crier Kevin Ward, a brass band, a face painter and a childrens' entertainer were brought together to bring colour, music and entertainment to the sunny High Street.

The Confederation Brass Band, made up of members from several bands from across Worcestershire, was formed especially for Bromsgrove District Council. They played a mixture of classic and contemporary pieces to suit both the occasion and a range of audiences throughout the afternoon.

Children took advantage of the face painting and entertainer, who mingled with the audience and passers by, creating and giving out balloon animals and flags as he went.

The event was designed to celebrate not only St. George’s Day, but also to give the town a boost.

Now the district council is seeking feedback, ideas and opinions on what worked well and what could be done differently next year and beyond to mark England’s national day.

Bromsgrove District Council's Arts Development and Special Events Officer Huw Moseley said: “We’re happy that the weather was so perfect. The entertainment seemed in fitting with the occasion and by the end of the day quite a number of people had told us they were pleased to see it happening. The signs are that this event was a success, and so what we really need now is for people to get in touch with their ideas and feedback so we can start to plan an event for next year that everyone can enjoy.”

Anyone with suggestions for St George’s Day 2010 can talk to Mr Moseley on 01527 881381.