York: Hundreds of young people march for St George's Day

The volunteers ended their parade outside York Minster

Hundreds of young people and volunteers took to the streets in North Yorkshire for a St George's Day celebration parade.

The Yorkshire Volunteer Band led the procession from Clifford's Tower to the Minster in York on Sunday.

Among those marching in their uniforms and waving flags were the region's Scouts, Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows.

John Ives, from North Yorkshire Scouts, said the event was honouring St George being the Patron Saint of Scouting.

He said: "We are delighted that our VIPs were once again able to join the service this year, which was led by Canon Tim Goode, and included items from members of Scouts and Girlguiding.

"It looked at the shared values of Girlguiding and Scouts of caring, including and empowering and gives thanks for our founders Lord and Lady Baden Powell."

The Yorkshire Volunteer Band led the procession from Clifford's Tower to York Minster

Other notable people taking part in the celebrations included the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of York and York Central MP Rachel Maskell.

The route went through Duncombe Place, Blake Street, Davygate, Parliament Street, High Ousegate, Nessgate, Clifford Street and Tower Street.

Alison Cunningham, county commissioner for Girlguiding North Yorkshire South, said that while the older members were taking part in the event at the Minster, younger people in the Squirrels, Beavers and Rainbows had their own event in York Central Methodist Church, led by Deacon Judith Stoddart.

"They explored the legend of St George and what that can teach us about being kind and helpful," she said.

St George's Day, otherwise known as England's national day, will take place on Tuesday.

A similar parade was held last year at York Minster, when around 1,500 people took to the streets again as part of the 80th anniversary of the annual St George's Day celebration at York Minster.