The character has been created by volunteers as part of a project run by Reprezent Project, a Yarmouth-based community interest company that organises artistic and cultural activities to promote social integration.

The Little George project was curated by Reprezent’s founder Ruben Cruz and the costume was designed by professional puppet maker and performer Jodie Smith, of Animus Puppetry, who worked with a team of seven volunteers to make the mascot.

Little George is assembled by professional puppet maker Jodie Smith with volunteer Peter Alexander (left) and Reprezent founder Ruben Cruz. (Image: St George's Theatre)

It will promote St George’s in schools, care homes and around the town, raising awareness of shows and community activities, including its adult and children’s theatre groups and community choir.

The project, aimed at tackling loneliness and isolation, was funded by Norfolk Community Foundation as part of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund Knowing Your Neighbourhood programme.

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The funding application was a collaboration involving Reprezent, DIAL and St George's Theatre.

Debbie Thompson, theatre director, said: “Little George has a great look and is a fantastic addition to the team here at St George’s. I know people are going to love him.”

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Mr Cruz, who is from Portugal, set up Reprezent to help break down barriers between local people and the migrant communities in Yarmouth through cultural activities.

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“Our aim is to involve the whole community in our projects and to engage with people of all ages and backgrounds,” he said.

“There are no barriers when it comes to art and culture. It’s something that everyone can enjoy and take part in.”

Peter Alexander, one of the volunteers who helped to make Little George, said he had some experience in theatrical prop-making and was hoping his work on the mascot might lead to a backstage role in the theatre.

He said: “It’s been great fun working on Little George and I hope people like him.”