Council will pay for St George's Day celebrations

More than £66,000 of council funding will be used to hold St George's Day celebrations across Rotherham this year.

The money will come from a government fund which was set up to bring communities together following the Manvers riots 18 months ago.

Rotherham Council said the decision followed a consultation with residents on flags and national identity. Feedback showed support for more prominent and inclusive celebrations of St George's Day across the borough.

St George's Day is traditionally celebrated on 23 April each year and is recognised as England's national day.

The money will come from the remaining balance of a £180,000 community cohesion fund as part of the Community Recovery Fund.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said £45,000 would go towards a St George's Day event at Clifton Park, intended to bring communities together from across Rotherham.

A further £16,000 will be allocated to a small grants programme, offering grants of up to £2,000 to community groups, town and parish councils to host their own events.

An additional £5,000 will fund a separate grants scheme allowing eligible organisations to purchase and erect flagpoles and flags.

The main event in Clifton Park is planned for the weekend of 18 April and is described as a family-friendly celebration recognising the diversity of Rotherham's communities.

Community events supported through the grants scheme must take place between 19 April and 4 May and are intended to help bring residents together, including those experiencing loneliness or isolation.

Grant funding can be used for costs such as entertainment, venue hire, catering, communications and event logistics, but not for alcohol.

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