The fine spring weather returned to Ledbury in time for the Malverns District Scouts St George’s Day parade and service, last Sunday.

The event, always red letter day for Scouts, was celebrated in Ledbury for the first time in around seven years.

Edd Hogan, assistant group scout leader in Ledbury said: “The event was extra special for Ledbury as 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of Scouting in the town and to celebrate it the Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, The Dowager Countess of Darnley, attended and took the salute.

“On arrival, Lady Darnley was presented with posy by Rebecca Hogan, a Beaver from 1st Ledbury. Alongside Lady Darnley was Hereford & Worcester County Commissioner, Robert Sidley and local MP Bill Wiggin. Ledbury Town Council Chairman Nina Shields joined them on the dias.

“The parade was led by the District Commissioners, Maureen and Ryan Heath, with the Union Flag and District Flag leading the parade ahead of 1st Ledbury. 1st Ledbury paraded a unique flag celebrating 100 years of Scouting in the town carried by a Scout in 100 years old uniform alongside a modern day uniformed Scout. Other Scout groups taking part included, Colwall, Bosbury, Cradley, Upton, Malvern Link, Malvern Wells, 1st, 2nd & 7th Malvern, and Leigh.”

Accompanying the parade was the Ledbury Community Brass Band. Many parents and townsfolk watched from the pavements on the High Street. In all, around 400 young people paraded from St Katherine’s to St Michael’s Church for the service of thanksgiving which was led by the Rector, Revd. Keith Hilton-Turvey. The address was given by Monsignor Patrick Kilgarriff at the invitation of 1st Ledbury. He spoke of the life of St George and the connections to the Scout Law and Promise before explaining about the ‘dragon’ of selfishness which hides in all of us. The music for the service was provided by Philip Holland on the organ and supported by Ledbury Community Choir led by Mal Hughes.

Mr Hogan added: “It was wonderful to see so many young people taking part, paying attention and smiling. It’s only when we get together in such numbers that one appreciates just how significant Scouting is in our town and county. And of course it was extra special this year.”