ST GEORGE and the dragon helped celebrate a special day and a special year for a York primary school today.

St George's RC Primary School in Fishergate celebrates its 150th anniversary this year and marked St George's Day today by holding a special Mass.

Former head teachers Sister Mary and Norman Fowler were invited along, as well as former pupils and staff.

Later in the day, children dressed up as St George and dragons and knights to take part in Mummers' plays and school was decorated on the theme.

Also marking the occasion was publican Jim Melsom, who has slashed the prices of English beer at his Heworth pub by 50p a pint to celebrate St George's Day.

Jim, landlord at the Nag's Head, said: "We are slaying beer prices, like George did the dragon. At lunchtime, there will also be free Yorkshire puddings and gravy.

"I think it is about time we started celebrating St George's Day."

At The Three Cups, Stamford Bridge, staff were also trying to breathe new life into the festival by dishing up some St George's Day facts along with its food.

Landlord Chris Jones said: "It would be great to think that people will leave the Three Cups having enjoyed a great meal and having increased their interest and knowledge about England's patron saint."

Updated: 12:14 Tuesday, April 23, 2002