PATRIOTIC youngsters flew the flag for St George's Day as the whole town celebrated England's patron saint.

At Gaskell Primary School today's celebrations were the highlight of a week where children have been shouting about why it is good to be British.

And in the town centre dashing knights were in Victoria Square giving out roses to passers-by.

Emily Kirk, headteacher of Gaskell Primary School, said: "We have had an absolutely brilliant week celebrating British values including democracy, standing up for injustice and mutual respect.

"As a multicultural school, we have been celebrating the rich heritage of our town and country and the ethos that ‘anyone can achieve if they work hard enough’.

"We were honoured that the Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton came in to our school to share our St George’s Day celebrations by talking to all of our children about the history of Bolton and the role that the Mayor has in our town.

"Our Pupil Council enjoyed a special meeting with him later were they asked him important questions about the role Bolton Council plays in their young lives."

Leo Owolabi, aged six, said: "I like being British because we are all treated fairly and we have freedom.

"In our country we get to go to school every day and feel safe. Today we had a party for St George in the sun — it was lots of fun."

Leah Walmsley, aged 11, added: "Celebrating Great Britain and St George’s Day this week at school has been amazing.

"We have found out lots about British traditions, the patron saints of the countries that make up Great Britain and their national flowers and songs.

"The mayor even visited our school. We are so lucky to live in Britain."

Celebrations will conclude tomorrow with a St George's Day Concert at Victoria Hall.

Smithills Senior Brass Band, Smithills Community Band and Smithills Community Choir will be taking to the stage at 7.30pm.

The programme will feature Land of Hope And Glory, Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and the National Anthem, with which the audience are invited to join in with.