Fusiliers Mark St George’s Day with Cathedral Service

Published April 2026

The Cathedral has long been a place of remembrance and celebration, with memorials honouring those who have fought and put their lives on the line for their country.

On Saturday 25 April, soldiers from X Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers gathered at the Cathedral for their St George’s Day service, accompanied by music from the Fusiliers band.

Among the Cathedral’s many representations of St George – the patron saint of England, celebrated for his military valour – is a striking oil painting dedicated to Brigadier-General James Foster Riddell (1861-1915), who lost his life during the First World War.

At the service, a sword belonging to Riddell was displayed, inviting attendees to reflect on his sacrifice and the sacrifices of many others who gave their lives in the Great War.

Following the service, the Dean was invited to join the Battalion Padre for a photograph in front of the painting unveiled in 1922 to honour Riddell, who perished in the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915.

This artwork, by the Dutch war cartoonist Louis Raemakers, was commissioned by Riddell’s widow, Margaret, and is one of the few works by Raemakers outside of Holland.

The painting depicts St George triumphantly vanquishing the dragon, with the ruined tower of Ypres Cloth Hall visible in the background. It was expertly restored by conservator Louise Bainbridge during the Cathedral’s National Lottery Heritage Fund redevelopment in 2021.

This service provided an opportunity to remember a serviceman from one of history’s most tragic conflicts and to honour the continued dedication of those who serve their country today.