St George's Day: Winchester scout parade is a success

Kicking off at 2.55pm, the parade marched through the City, beginning at Colebrook Street car park and heading around the statue of King Alfred.

The swathes of children, around 800 in total, were led by 250 scout leaders past the Guildhall and into the Cathedral.

It truly was a sight to behold, as the streets of Winchester were lined with hundreds of patriotic residents cheering as the troops of scouts, beavers and cubs marched with military precision, to the sound of brass instruments.

@hampshire_chronicle Check out the St George's Day scout parade in Winchester #StGeorgesDay #scouts #parade #Hampshirechronicle ♬ Bittersweet Symphony - Vitamin String Quartet

The Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Angela Clear was in attendance, an each unit paid respect to her with a salute as they marched past the Guildhall.

The Mayor was impressed by the parade, in a statement she told the Chronicle: "It was my pleasure to attend the parade yesterday.  All of the Cubs, Scouts and Beavers should be extremely proud of themselves and the standard they set; and the Samba band was an extra surprise."

The Mayor and the District Colour party shortly followed suit, heading towards the Cathedral to the sound of drums in what was a stunning display.

The weather was fine on this occasion, with slightly cloudy blue skies and the Sun shining down, keeping the precession bright and cheerful. The event culminated with a service at the Cathedral, where hymns were sung and the Mayor gave an address.