THERE was a huge turnout as the St George's Day Parade made a triumphant return.

Scouts the Malverns were out in force to celebrate the occasion in Ledbury on Sunday, April 21, with an estimated 175 children taking part in the parade.

On April 23 each year, the country gathers to celebrate St George's Day and commemorate the anniversary of the death of England's patron saint.

St George is not only the patron saint of England but also the patron saint of Scouting.

All groups from the district attended and made banners with trees to represent their local community and celebrate World Earth Day along with St George's Day.

Worcester News: 175 children across the district from the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers were a part of the parade175 children across the district from the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers were a part of the parade (Image: James Burton)

James Burton, of Scouts the Malverns, said: "The parade went as planned.

"We estimated 175 youngsters from all of our sections (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers) and for the first time we were joined by Squirrels (4-6 year olds) from 1st Leigh Sinton.

"These were supported by roughly 50 adult volunteer leaders who give up their time to run the weekly activities with the kids."

This year's event took place in Ledbury, with one of the groups responsible each year for organising and planning the occasion. 

The high street in Ledbury was temporarily closed on Sunday afternoon while the district marched from St Katherine’s Car Park to St Michael’s Church for a service.

"We celebrate St George's virtues of courage and selflessness and Scouts (including Beavers and Cubs) rededicate to following their Promise and Law, to help other people and always do their best," said Mr Burton.

"This year, we also celebrated World Earth Day by making banners to represent trees from our local communities, symbolising the need to protect our local environment."

Worcester News: The event was run for the first time since 2022 after last year's parade was cancelledThe event was run for the first time since 2022 after last year's parade was cancelled (Image: Scouts the Malverns)

This year marked the first St George's Parade for two years after the event was cancelled last year due to bad weather.

Mr Burton added: "It was wonderful to be able to celebrate together as a District again this year.

"We unfortunately had to cancel last year’s event due to bad weather but this year we were blessed with dry conditions and glorious sunshine."