Monmouth came alive last Sunday afternoon (22nd April) when some 450 scouts descended on Monnow Street to honour St George, the Patron Saint of Scouting.

Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts and Explorer Scouts with their leaders from all over Monmouthshire took part in the annual parade.

They marched down Monnow Street led by the renowned Abergavenny Air Training Corps Band and all under the watchful eye of Parade Marshal Richard Knock from the 3 Royal Welsh Regiment.

As the parade passed the Rolls Statue, the salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant, High Sherriff, Chief Inspector Jo Bull, Mayor of Monmouth Gerry Bright and Monmouthshire Scout District Chairman Bryan Davies, and then continued along Church Street to St Mary's Church.

Guests were welcomed, passing through an arch of flags, and with a capacity congregation the service was conducted by the Reverend David McGladdery.

During the service Rev McGladdery 'recruited' several Cub Scouts to help with his address.

After the service all were invited to take refreshments at the Monmouth Priory, where the Wyesham Scout Group Committee and Parents provided tea and cakes.

Sadly, this may be the last street parade because of the ever-more stringent regulations that are now required, making it almost impossible for volunteering organisations to undertake but watch this space.

The Scout Fellowship who organised the parade want to thank Gwent Police, Monmouthshire County Council, Monmouth Town Council, St Mary's Priory Church, 3 Royal Welsh Regiment, Monmouth Rotary Club, parents for all their help and especially all the youngsters and leaders who took part.