Story by: TOM JACKSON FOR most people, April 23 will be just another Thursday. But it s St George s Day – and for friends Penny Hicks and Madeline Williams, it s a reason to celebrate. They both commemorate our patron saint day every year, by flying the f

Story by: TOM JACKSON

FOR most people, April 23 will be just another Thursday. But it's St George's Day - and for friends Penny Hicks and Madeline Williams, it's a reason to celebrate.

They both commemorate our patron saint day every year, by flying the flag outside their homes, buying red roses, wearing red during the day and even sending cards to family and friends.

But 2009 brings the friends an extra special celebration - April 23 is also their 65th birthdays.

And they will start their celebrations four days early, at March's first St George's Day fayre.

Mrs Hicks, of March, is running a stall to raise money for the first responder charity Magpas, while Mrs Williams, of Leverington, will be joining in the fun.

Mrs Hicks said: "We have always celebrated St George's Day; it's a pity the rest of the country doesn't. But we're going to definitely join in the fun and hope everyone else will too.

"Magpas is a very worthy charity which does a very good job for people here, and I will do all I can to help - and that includes wearing a period red-and-white costume."

Mrs Williams, of Leverington, added: "Two weeks ago I wanted to do nothing for my birthday, but that idea's now out the window.

"I have got events all week - starting with the fayre - and I'm going to enjoy it all."

March is set to be packed with knights in shining armour for the fayre, which will feature street entertainment, a free Punch and Judy show, face painting and a wide range of family fun activities.

The fayre is supported by, among others, March Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce, March Regeneration Partnership, the March Society and Fenland Arts.

• Stalls are available at �10 and can be booked by calling the council's markets and events team on 01354 654321.