THE SUN was shining as hundreds of scouts attended their annual parade in Christchurch.

A marching band kicked off the festivities as hordes of colourful scouts lined up to march through the streets of Christchurch.

Christchurch Scouts were ‘thrilled’ to be joined by members from Christchurch Girl Guiding.

Scouts of all ages, from the youngest Squirrels to the oldest Explorers, renewed their promises at the historic St George’s Parade.

Meeting at the Quomps on Sunday, April 28, the scouts lined up for an inspection from the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Vivienne Charrett.

Cllr Charrett told the Daily Echo: “The turnout today was wonderful.

"It’s lovely to see everyone in their uniforms; they all look so smart.”

Frances Fawcett is the lead volunteer for Christchurch Scouts, and she has been involved as a volunteer for over ten years.

Frances said: “I am absolutely delighted with the turn out today, we have seen people coming in thick and fast.

“We are so relieved that the sun came out; it made such a difference to the day.”

Once the inspections were completed, the parade was set off by the Christchurch Scout Band.

Crowds of people marched along Wick Lane to Church Street and into the Priory grounds.

The Jumpers Scout Group organised a service at The Priory.

Following this, the group paraded into The Priory Gardens, where the Mayor and Bob Roots, the Scout District Commissioner, exchanged colours from this year's duty group.

The Mayor addressed the procession and said a few words before dismissing the parade.

Frances said: “Christchurch is so fortunate to have such a good scouting provision.

“Not only do we have traditional scouts, but we also have air scouts, sea scouts, and a band.

“There is a huge range of opportunities for the youngsters in the community. We do all the traditional scouting activities like camping and campfires.

"But we also put on gang shows, which are theatrical performances by members of scouts and guides.

“Everyone looks so lovely in their uniforms. It is just wonderful to see them in their smart outfits from age four to eighteen.”