SCOUTS from across Bolton gathered to celebrate St George’s Day with the town’s largest parade to date.

More than 800 Scouts joined the event, which was attended by every Scout group in Bolton and featured a flag parade followed by a service at Bolton Parish Church.

The parade was led by the Farnworth and Walkden Brass Band and held to celebrate St George, the patron saint of scouting.

From beavers as young as six to scouts aged over 18, the event attracted a wide range of volunteers.

Organiser Rob Pimblett, district commissioner, said: “We haven’t had a parade like this before. It’s the first one with all of the Scouts in Bolton joining us.

“We reckon there are at least 800 out today which is amazing for the town.

“Because St George’s Day falls on a Sunday this year we’ve been in negotiations with the town hall and they’ve kindly agreed to close the roads and marshal it, completely free of charge.

“It’s absolutely fantastic and it’s great to see so many people out in the community.

“There’s a growing interest from young Scouts wanting to join however we have a lack of leaders able to run groups.

“We would love to hear from anyone interested in getting involved and becoming a leader or just volunteering some of their time to support the Scouts.”

Oliver Symonds, aged nine, marched with his friends Lily-Sue Pimblett, aged eight, George Leeson, aged nine and seven-year-old Martha Mcdonald, from 25th Bolton St Thomas and St John’s Lostock Cub Scout group.

Oliver said: “This is the first time I’ve been in the parade and I know St George’s Day is important so I’m excited to be involved.”

George added: “I’m really excited to be marching as a Cub with my friends.”

Prior to the service, the Union Flag, St George’s flag, the World Scout flag and various group flags were displayed around the church, which then formed a guard of honour for the Mayors of Horwich and Westhoughton.

Diane Hawkins, chairman of Bolton Scout Trust, said: “It’s absolutely hugely significant to celebrate St George’s Day, our patron saint.

“There are hundreds of Scouts out today proudly wearing their uniform representing this amazing organisation.”