MORE THAN 1,000 Scouts and Guides from Colchester turned out to honour St George, the Patron Saint of Scouting.

For the two Scout districts and two Guide divisions, St George's Day is more than just a celebration for the nation.

About 1,500 people paraded around Colchester High Street, acknowledging their special connection with the Saint.

Starting at the Britannica car park, the Scouts and Guides marched along St John's Street, Head Street and along the High Street.

Once at the Town Hall, they saluted mayor Theresa Higgins. They then moved on to Castle Park where they held a Renewal of Promise ceremony.

Duncan Kury, parade marshall, highlighted this as an important part of the day.

He said: "The renewal of the Scout and Guide promise is very special, as well as that we sang songs.

"It was a really fun and enjoyable event, all being it was rather cold.

"They have a great time walking around, some people think it's a military parade but although they are all in their files they are having fun and are waving to their parents."

Tea and coffee was served at the Hollytrees Museum lawn, and all money raised on the day will go towards the Robin Cancer Trust.