Veterans from the Ross and District branch of the Royal British Legion took a well-deserved break to observe St. George's Day with a hearty breakfast, demonstrating the enduring resonance of this historic day in England. It's a day that not only pays tribute to England's patron saint, St. George, but also marks the birth of the revered playwright, William Shakespeare.

St. George's Day, celebrated annually on 23rd April, stretches its influence far beyond England. It's also observed by a multitude of Christian churches, countries, and regions worldwide - such as Bulgaria, Ethiopia, Greece, Georgia, Portugal, Syria, Lebanon, Catalonia, Alcoi, Aragon and Rio de Janeiro - where St. George is their patron saint.

According to the writings of the Venerable Bede, a Catholic monk living between approximately 673-735, St. George has been a notable figure in England from early times. From the 15th century, St. George's Day was considered a national holiday and major feast in England, putting it on par with Christmas celebrations.

However, by the end of the 18th century, following the union of England and Scotland, the festivities surrounding St. George's Day began to wane. Recent years have seen a renewed debate over the relevance of St. George. Critics argue that this relatively obscure figure, with no direct links to England, should perhaps be replaced as the patron saint.