City escapes dragon danger - 15th June 2022

Every year, the Belgian city of Mons is saved from a dragon by the noble St George. The battle's part of an ancient festival which has been on UNESCO's list of human cultural heritage since 2008.

The official name of the festival, which lasts a full weekend, is the Ducasse de Mons. However, local residents know it simply as the 'Doudou'.

The highlight is the precisely staged battle between St George and the dragon. A team of 11 'white men' and 8 'leaf men' manoeuvre the dragon as the pair face each other off for 30 minutes. Others protect St George from 11 devils.

Participants are local residents, who come from a variety of professions and spend all year in training. Many have waited years for the chance to take part and make sure the action follows the traditions of the 15th century festival.

The enormous crowds also have their part to play. They attempt to hold down the dragon by its hair and tail.

In a predictable ending, it's always St George who wins the battle. He wounds the beast with his sword and kills it with a gunshot.

Free from the terror, the citizens of Mons are overjoyed.