Having just experienced a great football tournament, where the people of England came together in support of the national team. How many people were aware that the country of England celebrated it’s birthday, just a few hours later on the 12th of July.

On the 12th of July 927AD, at Eamont bridge, near Penrith, the Anglo Saxon ruler, Athelstan, was accepted as the first King of all England, as we know it today (with a few border changes over time), following his victory over the Viking kingdom of York.

King Athelstan, among other things, oversaw the translation of the bible into English, encouraged the establishment of burhs where trade would become concentrated and reformed the currency, which had become badly debased.

I would therefore like to propose that we as a country, recognise England day on the 12th of July each year, as a celebration of all the positive things that have come from that day in  July 927AD, when sadly, some people like to focus on the small amount of negatives (in comparison). Furthermore, I would like to propose a bank holiday for the 12th of July 2027, when this magnificent nation celebrates being 1100 years old! If we can come together for a football tournament, Then why not annually for England itself!