Over a thousand people gathered in Pinner today for a brilliant day of festivities to celebrate St George’s Day, organised each year by Pinner Rotary Club.
The event, now a firm tradition in the local calendar and one of the biggest of the year, brought together residents, businesses, and organisations from across Harrow. Throughout the day, there was a lively atmosphere, with live music, entertainment, fairground rides, food and drink stalls, and activities for children spread across the High Street and Church Farm Green. Warm weather and sunshine helped create an even more enjoyable experience for everyone who attended.
One of the highlights was the famous Pinner wheelbarrow race, a tradition that first started back in 1963. Teams took it in turns to push each other in wheelbarrows through the streets, stopping at different points – usually pubs or checkpoints – to have a quick drink before racing on. The race traditionally starts outside Pinner Parish Church and has become a much-loved part of the celebrations, often drawing big crowds and plenty of fancy dress.
This year’s event also featured a traditional parade through the high street, with Harrow District Scouts, the Pinner Association, and local police among those taking part. Volunteers from across the community helped organise and run the day, alongside support from local businesses, including the newly opened ‘Music & Life’ shop in Pinner.
Although St George’s Day itself falls tomorrow (Monday 28 April), the celebrations were held today to make the most of the weekend. With Easter falling later this year, the date of St George’s Day has felt a little different (usually on the 23rd!), but that didn’t stop the local community turning out in big numbers to show their support.
Cllr Hitesh Karia, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services and Pinner South Ward Councillor, posted on Facebook: “Amazing to be part of the St George’s Day Celebrations in Pinner today in the sunshine with Harrow Mayor Chowdhury Salim.
“Thanks to all the volunteers at Rotary Club of Pinner, The Pinner Association and all the Harrow District Scouts attending, as well as all the local Police and businesses who supported the event. Pinner Local / Shop Local in Pinner and a great turn out from wonderful local Harrow Council residents making the day that much more special!”
The aim of the event is not just to celebrate England’s patron saint, but also to bring the community together and help support local shops and charities. It has become one of the biggest St George’s Day celebrations in Harrow and is a real highlight for many residents every year.
Photos from the day showed families enjoying the rides, people waving St George’s flags, and groups of friends cheering on the wheelbarrow teams as they made their way down Pinner High Street.
Lots of photos and videos have been shared on the Harrow Online Group on Facebook, head over there to take a look and share your own!.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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