IT'S time we drank a toast to England's patron saint, says York landlord Shaun Collinge - and so he's provided 13 beers for us to do just that.

Shaun is a patriotic fellow, and he believes the English should celebrate their national day with something of the fervour of our near neighbours.

This time next week, April 23, is Shakespeare's birthday and, of course, St George's Day.

From Friday, drinkers at Shaun's pub, The Maltings, Tanners Moat, can prove their patriotism in pints. Among his baker's dozen of brews are: English Glory, by the Titanic brewery (4.5 per cent); Archers' Spirit of St George (4.5 per cent); Hambleton's Dragon Brew (four per cent) and Hook Norton's 303AD (four per cent - St George was martyred on April 23, 303AD).

Anyone drinking the equivalent of four pints of England's finest will earn themselves a St George's flag lapel badge.

"We have sold green beer for St Patrick's Day and everything, and thought it was about time we celebrated our own patron saint," explained Shaun.

"The day has been subdued for years, because it's been hijacked by extreme political parties. Last year I put the flags outside and was accused of being racist.

"How can I be a racist by showing loyalty to my own country in my own country?"

Suspecting that thousands of people feel the same way, he has decided to take a stand.

"We shouldn't be embarrassed to be patriotic.

"Everybody else - the Scots, the Irish, the Welsh - are able to celebrate their roots.

"Everybody in this country joins in on St Patrick's Day, and I can understand it because it's an excuse to have a drink.

"But it's time we stood up and celebrated our own patron saint."

Mind you, Shaun added, "St George never set foot in this country".

Perhaps it's time to create a new patron saint. Cry "God for Harry, England and St Shaun!"

Correction

In last week's Bar Talk we referred to Willy Leech as a silent partner in Kennedy's Bar, York. It has since been pointed out to us that Mr Leech is not a partner in Kennedy's nor is he connected with the business in any way whatsoever. Apologies all round. The drinks are on us!

Updated: 08:35 Saturday, April 16, 2005