ABOUT 1,000 youngsters stepped out to mark St George’s Day in Colchester today.

The annual event saw representatives from 27 scout groups across the borough, from the town’s North and Estuary districts.

The group, led by parade marshal Duncan Kury set off from Britannia car park at 2pm.

Youngsters then made their way through Colchester town centre before parading along High Street for a salute to Colchester Mayor Julie Young.

MP Will Quince also attended alongside North District Commissioner Dave Humphrey and Estuary District Youth Commissioner Matt Taylor-Roberts.

Mr Kury, who is leads the 12th Colchester Sea Scouts, said although the Guides had opted not to parade this year, the day remained a special one for scouting.

He said: “It is a day which the youngsters really enjoy taking part in - as well as their parents.

“Scouting is very strong both across the country and in Colchester and it’s great to be able to show that.”

Mr Kury also thanked Colchester Council for cordoning off part of Britannia car park to allow the group to assemble before the parade began.

He added: “To give the council their dues, we always feel like they are behind us and give us the support we need on the day.”

The leader also said the parade is a chance to show how strong scouting is in north Essex, despite needing more leaders to come forward.

He added: “Between the two divisions, we have got 300 young people on the waiting list because we just haven’t got enough leaders.

“It is disappointing because those young people are there and they want to take part and we just can’t take them.

“It is a national problem, though, so we are by no means alone.”

Anyone who would like to find out more about becoming a leader can click on scouts.org.uk or email the Essex Scout organiser on ian.hopkins@essexscouts.org.uk.

  • Monday's Gazette had a six-page picture special on the parade - call 01206 506000 to get your copy.