Where it all began.... Some five years ago in 1999 a group of residents local to the Stone Cross area of West Bromwich had a burning desire to display their appreciation and love for their country and celebrate their heritage and acknowledge St. Georges Day, the occasion and to pay homage to our heroes and glorious past. Being totally inexperienced in such matters, much deliberation and many discussions took place as to the most appropriate way to honour such an occasion, numerous ideas were considered and dispensed with before agreeing on a St. Georges Parade, after all the English had always marched, their ancestors had marched to many proud and famous victories, therefore they would march ... but from where?.... to where? It was decided that the parade would be from Stone Cross to The Hall End Tavern, the news was spread by word of mouth and approx 150 pioneers set of on what was to be the inaugrial parade, satisfied with their efforts then quenched their thirst. The first march was not without it`s problems and our gallant lads had to overcome objections and obstructions from council and police alike..... but you can`t keep a proud Englishman down ! Spurred on by their success plans were made for the following year, this time the numbers were doubled and approx 300 marchers walked from Stone Cross, Carters Green. The year 2002 saw the numbers double again and this time 600 marchers followed the same route as the previous year. It was much the same story in 2003 as again the numbers doubled on the annual pilgrimage from Stone Cross to Carters Green bringing us up to 2004. Last year saw a tremendous resurgence in patriotism with a record 4800 marchers including three bands marching from The Golden Lion Pub to Dartmouth Park, West Bromwich to a full compliment of side shows, market stalls and entertainment. There were numerous reasons for the unparalleled success of last years march, mainly the hard work undertaken by the committee advertising and promoting the event. The collaboration and involvement of local celebrity and historian Professor Carl Chinn helped to raise the profile of the event. Finally Sandwell Council bowed to public pressure and recognised the event to such an extent that the 2005 parade will be billed as Sandwell Council in conjunction with The Stone Cross St. Georges Association.This will be undoubtedly the biggest event of it`s kind in the country.