ELY played its part in the revival of an ancient tradition this week, when the Loving Cup of England was welcomed to the city. The silver gilt cup – which is based on a medieval community ceremony – will tour the 50 cities of England as a build-up to cel

ELY played its part in the revival of an ancient tradition this week, when the Loving Cup of England was welcomed to the city.

The silver gilt cup - which is based on a medieval community ceremony - will tour the 50 cities of England as a build-up to celebrations for St George's Day 2007 on April 23.

The exquisite silver gilt Cup was officially received at Ely Museum on Tuesday by Ely mayor John Ison on behalf of the citizens of Ely. It was filled with English apple juice to enable people from all walks of life to drink from it to celebrate harmony within the community.

Cllr Ison said: "I am pleased and proud that Ely is one of the places chosen to receive the Loving Cup of England - ours is an historical city with a magnificent cathedral known throughout the world.

"It has frequently featured in our Country's story and the City Council welcomes the chance to be part of this unique and imaginative way of bringing people together and promoting the celebration of St George's Day."

The loving cup tradition has a history steeped in treachery and murder but it will be re-introduced after more than 1000 years with an emphasis on peace, harmony and togetherness.

Chairman and national organiser Bruno Peek OBE said: "I believe the people of Ely will agree there is much to celebrate in England. "We all lead such busy lives that little of our time is devoted to recognising and appreciating the place in which we live - the tour of the Loving Cup will, I believe, act as a catalyst to get us all thinking about this great country of ours."

It is hoped that the tour will raise awareness about St George's Day celebrations across the country. This year, the RNID - the Royal National Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and cancer research charity AICR are among the charities that will benefit from fund-raising activities.