SHAKESPEARE, fish and chips, football and a good cup of tea.

All very English institutions that should be celebrated with a public bank holiday, according to one Hampshire MP.

Just as St George slayed the dragon, Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne is flying the red cross in the hope of winning the battle against Government for an official day off on April 23.

He believes the country should celebrate Englishness with pride, just at the Irish do on St Patrick’s Day.

England already lags behind in the public holiday stakes, only enjoying nine a year, compared to France’s 12, Germany’s 15 and Sweden’s 17.

Mr Huhne is backing the Commons move to introduce the holiday and is encouraging local communities to follow the example of Hedge End town council, which is hosting a series of events to celebrate the day.

He said: “St George is just as deserving of public notice as St Andrew, St David and St Patrick. An extra public holiday would be the best way to mark the occasion.

Mr Huhne, who has the St George’s flag flying high at his Hampshire home, added: “It would be a great opportunity to commemorate our achievements and show Chris Huhne national unity.”