2023 Pinner Rotary St George's Day celebration

A light drizzle didn’t deter the people of Pinner from celebrating St George's Day and cheering on the Wheelbarrow Racers in Pinner High Street.

Jubilant bellringing from Pinner Parish Church started the celebrations, followed by the Parade of Scouts led by St George himself. The combined Scout and Guide groups of Harrow – including for the first time the 4-6 year-old Squirrels – made an impressive sight as they gathered at the top of the High Street to renew their Promise. This is an important part of any St George’s Day celebration as St George, the patron saint of England, is also the patron saint of Scouts.

After the parade, Capital Connection braved the drizzle to perform their excellent a cappella popular songs, followed by the colourful Merrydowners Morris dancers. Also performing during the day were Simply Gray who have a loyal following for their classic rock music, with all ages singing along and tapping their feet. 

On Church Farm Green an extensive collection of animals could be fed, stroked and cuddled at Appreciating Animals petting farm, including baby hedgehogs and piglets, while some well-known characters were battling each other on stage in the Punch & Judy Show. Both attractions kept many curious and wide-eyed children entertained.

The sun finally appeared in time for the Wheelbarrow Race, the highlight of the celebrations, a unique event dating back to 1963 when there was a lot less regard for health and safety. Last year’s winners, Ryan and Chris – aka “Curse These Metal Hands” - successfully defended their title and were awarded the winner’s shield and celebratory fizz by the Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Janet Mote. The Best Dressed prize went to Tom and Paul, “The Pinner Pilgrims”, whose Viking costumes were most impressive.

Throughout the day the High Street was very busy and members of the public generously gave nearly  £1,000 in our collecting buckets. With stall donations and Gift Aid included we expect to raise around £2,500, a record for this event. This will be donated to charities supported by Pinner Rotary.

Pinner Rotary St George's Celebrations are generously sponsored by Gibbs Gillespie estate agents. Our thanks also to the Queen’s Head and the Oddfellows Arms for their support.