THE first St George's Day Parade for 10 years at St Mary's Church, Barry, took place on Sunday.

The congregation was joined by the Vale Mayor, Deputy Town Mayor and Consort, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Guides, Brownies, Rainbows, the Association of retired Leaders and the Royal British Legion.

The parade began at King Square, marching to the church and assembling outside before entering for an 11am service.

More than 20 stewards lined the steps of St Mary's and the 300 people inside meant that extra chairs had to be brought in.

The Scouts would normally carry the Queen's Standard but on this occasion it was carried by the Royal British Legion as a tribute to John Hobbs, whose funeral takes place at St Mary's at 10.15am on Monday, April 30.

Prior to the service, awards were made for long service to the Scouting Association.

The Rev Michael Wishart, a chaplain in the Royal Navy for many years, officiated at the service.

Both the Welsh and National anthems were sung at the end of the service before the standards were carried through the church to reassemble outside St Mary's before dismissal.

A spokesman said: "It was a sight that has been missing from Barry, and it was good to see all the young people. Robert Baden-Powell's birthday was on April 23 - hence the connection with St George.

"It was wonderful to see the array of standards lining the church steps and the children and their Leaders proudly marching in their different uniforms.

"The children were a credit to their parents and Leaders of the Scouting and Guide movement. We look forward to their return next year."

Thanks goes to the churchwarden at St Mary's, Susan Borges; also Huw Adam and Brian Fowley for their part in organising the morning.