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Published: 09 July 2025

For the third consecutive year, the Little Bulgaria UK charity — under the discerning leadership of Knight Mihail Stoyanov and Dame Sofia Stoyanova, both trustees of the charity and esteemed members of the Order — brought the Bulgarian spirit to life in Cambridge with its annual "Cambridge Sings and Dances!" festival on 29 June 2025. Recognised as the largest Bulgarian cultural festival ever held in the United Kingdom, this year’s event drew more than 2,500 visitors and embraced eight hours of continuous music, dance and cultural celebration on the lawns of Nuns Way Pavilion, Cambridge.

The festival programme was richer and more immersive than ever: over 40 performances by 20 singing and dance ensembles, including six children’s groups — a joyful testament to the vitality of Bulgarian folk traditions across the UK. Attendees filled the grounds with song, colour, and the rhythms of folklore, staying beyond the scheduled close as the enthusiasm and community spirit carried on well into the afternoon.

A highlight for all present was the spectacular procession featuring the 40-metre Bulgarian flag, carried to the lively strains of Dunavsko Horo as hundreds of dancers and onlookers joined in.

This moving pageant of cultural pride was led by distinguished members of the Order of Saint George the Martyr: Grand Master Robert Dryden, Grand Prior Richard Brown, Knight Commander Piero D’Angelico Falco, Knights Robert Hyslop and Mick Pocock, and Abdul Arain, valued friend of the Order.

The festival was graced by prominent guests who underscored the significance of the event. His Excellency Tihomir Stoychev, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Kingdom — and Honorary Knight of the Order conferred during the 2025 Investiture — offered remarks celebrating Bulgaria’s ancient heritage and the vital role of community in preserving cultural identity. Representatives from local government — Cllr Dinah Pounds, Mayor of Cambridge, and Paul Bristow, Mayor of the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority — also shared their greetings and reflections.

Beyond the formal programme, members of the Order had the opportunity to engage with these distinguished guests, fostering dialogue and mutual respect that exemplify the Order’s commitment to fellowship and cultural exchange.

In true festival spirit, members also participated wholeheartedly in the joyful experience of Bulgarian traditions: learning and dancing the horo alongside the crowd, exploring a vibrant marketplace of traditional cuisine, sweets, crafts, textiles, and artisan stalls, and sharing in the warmth of Bulgarian hospitality that permeated the day.

This celebration of heritage, community and unity resonates deeply with the core values of the Order of Saint George the Martyr — faith, charity, honour, and the service of cultural fellowship. Through active support and presence at events such as this, the Order reaffirms its dedication to strengthening bonds between peoples and celebrating the rich tapestry of traditions that enrich our societies.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Little Bulgaria UK charity for their continued dedication for fostering cultural inclusivity and look forward to many fruitful cultural events in the years ahead.

Below is a video from the event.

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Published: 17 May 2025

In the historic surroundings of Great St Mary’s Church, in the heart of Cambridge, the Order of St George the Martyr held its annual Investiture Ceremony, celebrating both the heritage of chivalric tradition and the timeless values of service, courage, and compassion.

This year’s ceremony was especially significant, not only for its solemn dignity and inspiring atmosphere but also for the inclusion of new voices and cultures into the life of the Order. Five individuals were formally welcomed into the Order: Mr Mihail Stoyanov, Mrs Sofia Stoyanova, Mr Mark Joseph Boden, Mr Anthony Owen Smith, and Ms Joanne Marie Stannard. In addition, Chevalier Pietro D’Angelico Falco and Chevalier Tony Hore ware promoted to the rank of Knight Commander, in recognition of their continued service and dedication to the Order’s mission.

The ceremony was honoured by the presence of several high-profile guests, including His Majesty’s Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, John Bridge, OBE, DL, and his wife Jenny Bridge, as well as His Excellency Mr Tihomir Stoychev, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Kingdom and His Excellency The Rt Revd Monsignor Provost Eugene Harknes. A deeply symbolic and emotional highlight of the ceremony was the performance of the Bulgarian national anthem, played by the church’s organist and choir in honour of the induction of the first two Bulgarian members of the Order and the presence of the Bulgarian Ambassador. The gesture was warmly received by all present and represented a powerful moment of cultural inclusion and unity.

Following the formal investiture, members and guests gathered in the church gardens for group photographs before the procession moved to a celebratory luncheon and networking reception at the Hilton Cambridge City Centre.

The five new members of the Order with Cllr Robert Dryden (Grand Master, in the white robes), from left to right, Mr Mihail Stoyanov, Mrs Sofia Stoyanova, Ms Joanne Marie Stannard, Mr Mark Joseph Boden, and Mr Anthony Owen Smith. Picture: Tim Gillett

The Order of St George the Martyr at Great St Mary's Church, Cambridge. Picture: Tim Gillett

The luncheon was opened with a moving address by Grand Master Robert Dryden JP, who welcomed the new members and reminded all present of the Order’s guiding mission:

“Today we honour those whose lives reflect the very virtues St George stood for—courage, justice, and compassion. This Order is not about formality or ceremony alone; it is about the quiet but powerful impact of service. Let this day inspire us to do more, to be more, and to stand for what is right in a world that so desperately needs it.”

This was followed by a keynote address from John Bridge, OBE, DL, who, speaking on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III, offered these words:

“The Order of St George calls on its members not simply to wear its insignia, but to live its values… Today is a moment of recognition, yes. But it is also a moment of recommitment – to continue that example, and to bring light where it's needed most.”

In a particularly meaningful moment, Ambassador Stoychev was conferred the title of Honorary Knight of the Order, symbolising the enduring friendship between the Order and the Bulgarian community in the UK. In his speech, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude and spoke of the strong bonds uniting the Bulgarian diaspora with British society through shared values and civic engagement:

“St George is a revered saint in Bulgaria, a national symbol of strength and sacrifice. This honour affirms the connection between our two nations and opens the door to future cooperation—perhaps even a formal branch of the Order in Bulgaria itself.”

Included below are a few selected photos from the luncheon tables, capturing moments of fellowship during the delicious lunch prepared by the Hilton Cambridge City Centre team.

As per the longstanding tradition of the Order, the Investiture Ceremony concluded with a charitable act, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to community service. This year, the Order donated £2,000 to Riding for the Disabled, supporting therapeutic horse-riding programmes that improve the lives of children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Closing the event, Grand Prior Richard Brown expressed gratitude on behalf of the Order and conveyed warm wishes from His Majesty The King, who had been informed of the day’s proceedings:

“Each year, I write to The King to inform him of our new Postulants and the good works we’ve achieved. His Majesty expresses his great thanks and wishes us a successful year ahead.”

The Grand Prior also announced that the next Investiture Ceremony has been scheduled for Saturday, 16 May 2026, once again at Great St Mary’s Church, inviting all members and supporters to return for another day of celebration, reflection, and renewal.

The 2025 Investiture Ceremony stood as a shining example of what the Order of St George the Martyr represents: a living tradition rooted in service, honour, and unity—ever open to those who lead by example and act with purpose.

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Published: 24 April 2025

On 24 April 2025, the historic Huntingdonshire Town Hall played host to a distinguished visit from the Grand Master of the Order of St George, Cllr Robert Dryden JP, and five esteemed Knights of the Order of St George the Martyr. This special gathering, arranged by the Mayor of Huntingdon, Karl Brockett, marked a proud moment of tradition, service, and shared aspirations.

The afternoon was rich with engaging discussions, focusing on the Order's prestigious history, the process of becoming a member, and the thrilling vision of establishing a new chapter in Huntingdon. The Knights, alongside Karl and Julie Brockett, and other key advocates, pledged to bolster local fundraising efforts, championing initiatives that promise lasting impacts for the community.

A highlight of the visit was a private and personalized tour of the Town Hall, where guests marvelled at the building's remarkable architectural heritage. Among the treasures on display was an extraordinary and rarely-seen artifact: Oliver Cromwell's personal watch, offering a poignant glimpse into the town's storied past.

Following the tour, a delightful afternoon tea was hosted in the Mayoral Parlour. This warm and convivial gathering fostered meaningful connections, strengthening bonds between the Order and Huntingdon's civic leaders. Notably, both Julie and the Mayor expressed a heartfelt interest in joining the Order, underlining their commitment to its noble ideals and future endeavors.

The visit also paved the way for exciting discussions around upcoming charity events and innovative fundraising initiatives, aimed at supporting vital causes both locally in Cambridgeshire and across the globe. With over 15 years of dedicated community service, the Order of St George's unwavering support continues to inspire and make a difference.

The Mayor and Julie extended their sincere gratitude to the Grand Master and the Knights for their enduring dedication, looking forward to a dynamic and impactful partnership that will enrich the lives of many in the years to come.

This memorable occasion serves as a testament to the enduring power of tradition, service, and fellowship—hallmarks of the Order's proud legacy and its bright future in Huntingdon.