ON St George’s Day (April 23) it is traditional for the 13 Andover District Scout groups and Explorer Scouts to parade through Andover town before and after a service at St Mary’s Church, where their Scout promise is renewed.

This year though there is a new dimension to the parade.

Baden-Powell chose Saint George to be The Patron Saint of The Scout Association as he felt that the Saint George of legend set a good example of faith, courage and perseverance, principles embedded in Scouting.

The parade in Andover this year is this Sunday – the week after Easter Sunday.

District commissioner Dr Rebecca Ferris said: “It is usually attended by at least 500 Scouting members and much enjoyed by the local population.

“The annual Andover District Scouts St George’s parade this year has a new twist after 60 Cub Scouts took part in a silk painting workshop in April at the Phoenix Centre to create the most beautiful dragon artwork.

“The dragons depict the problems in our world today, such as laziness, greed and anger.

“The designs were created and drawn by the young people. Some of the leaders were allowed to help fill in the colours under the guidance of the Cub Scouts.

“These works of art will create a spectacular visual feast when they are paraded on Sunday through the streets of Andover.

“The private Scout service at St Mary’s will give the Scouting members a chance to think about the power of good over evil and how this relates to their role in Scouting and in the community and assist them to work together to help others.

The Scouts are looking for a local venue to temporarily display the flags after St George’s Day for all to see.

Parade times on Sunday: l 2.20pm East Street Car Park direct to St Mary’s Church l 3.45pm St Mary’s Church to Bridge Street, Via East Street. Salute to Test Valley Borough Council major (Cllr Janet Whiteley) and District Commissioner (Dr Rebecca Ferris) at the bottom of the High Street, opposite NatWest.