PUPILS at Banbury School raised awareness of St George's Day on Monday by reviving the dragon-slaying legend.

Students Lewis Cullen (dragon), Joe Delarue (maiden), and Andrew Duffy (St George) performed the ritual after governors at the school asked pupils to recognise the day set aside to honour England's patron saint.

The school's income development officer Jane Ablett said: "It is part of a nationwide campaign. Similar happenings are taking place at schools across the country as part of a bid to highlight St George, and to see the flag, the red cross on a white background, being flown at times other than football, rugby, or cricket matches.

"The governors requested the pupils to make an effort."

Lewis Cullen said he had been asking pupils if they knew about St George's Day.

He said: "Not many realised it was St George's Day. They wondered why I was dressed as a dragon, and I would say that most of those I spoke to were unaware of the importance of the day."

Bruno Peek, national organiser of the Enjoy England - Celebrate St George's Day campaign, said: "We all lead busy lives and little of our time is devoted to recognising and appreciating where we live. That is why St George's Day is so important.

"It is the one day of the year that the whole of England can unite in celebration of a great country."

Bob Cotton, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association, said: "St George's Day is probably the most overlooked of the national days.

"I would like to see everyone become involved with an event in their area to celebrate our national anniversary."