Scouts parade for patron saint

Around 1,600 young people paraded through Southwell on Saturday to mark St George’s Day.

Scout and Guide groups from the Central Nottinghamshire area took part in the parade, which was the largest in its 60 year history.

The parade began at The Burgage and passed along King Street and Church Street before arriving at the Minster.

During the service, led by the Precentor, Canon Jacqui Jones, 12 young people gave readings and read prayers.

There was also a renewal of the Scout promise for anyone who had ever been a Scout or Guide.

The deputy county commissioner for Nottinghamshire Scouts, Mr Matt Rooney, said it was appropriate for them to mark St George’s Day as he was the patron saint of Scouting as well as England.

After the service, the Scouts and Guides paraded out of the minster to the gates of War Memorial Park, where the Metcalfe colours for the smartest troops were awarded.

The winners included the 1st Woodborough Beaver Scouts and the 1st Burton Joyce Scouts.

Refreshments were provided by the Southwell Scout group based at Bishop’s Drive.