THERE may not have been a dragon in sight but the spirit of St George was all around over the weekend as events were held in Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester to mark the patron saint of England.

Patron saints are called on to help save their countries so it was appropriate that people rode to the rescue – albeit not on horseback – to support Fordington’s St George’s Day Fair in Dorchester.

The volcanic ash crisis which grounded flights last week meant two acts whose members were abroad could not appear at the ancient village green fair.

Churchwarden at Fordington’s St George’s Church, Margaret Morrissey, made a last-minute appeal in the Echo for entertainment – and she was not disappointed.

Operatic singer Brian Wallet, of Portland, and Dee Thorne, of Dorchester Historical Dance, joined the Durnovaria Silver Band to perform for crowds in the sunshine on Saturday.

Mrs Morrissey said it was a very successful day, contributing £3,800 to church funds.

Cub packs were also out in force yesterday for their annual parades to honour St George, who is also the patron saint of Scouting.

About 250 Cubs, Beavers, Explorers, Guides, Brownies and one Rainbow joined the Dorchester and District St George’s Day parade, which wound its way through the town and ended at the United Church for a service, led by the Rev Brenda Stephenson.

District Commissioner Mike Marsh said awards were presented during the service, the highlight of which was the presentation of the rare Silver Acorn – Scouting’s second highest award – to Assistant District Commissioner Dave Ling.

Eight packs were represented at a parade held by the Weymouth and Portland District Scouts on the island. Members made their way to Easton Methodist Church for a service led by the Rev Chris Briggs.

Awards were also presented, with Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Anne Kenwood and representatives from the county’s Scouting Association doing the honours.

Also on Portland, young musicians and singers from St George’s Primary School gave a splendid start to the open day held at St George’s Centre in Reforne.

Their abilities held the audience spellbound and this was followed by another group of youngsters, the 2nd Edition Majorettes whose smart turnout and slick routine did the occasion proud.

The day-long event, which included entertainment from Portland Sea Cadets and Island Voices with heritage and patriotic themes, was organised by Phil Traves and the committee of the Island of Portland Heritage Trust.

The Association for Portland Archaeology, the Royal Manor Workshops and other organisations using the centre also arranged displays.

Mr Traves said: “We’re delighted with the success of the day and by the interest expressed by people of all age groups in their heritage – and in St George.”