More than 300 patriotic young Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and their leaders put their best foot forward to celebrate their patron saint at a coastal town's annual parade.

With the Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade held this year in Oulton Broad, for one leader it was a particularly proud day.

Lowestoft Journal: Mel Buck, front centre, at the Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick HowesMel Buck, front centre, at the Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Mel Buck has filled the role of District Commissioner over the last 10 years - and this was the last event he would oversee.

The youngsters assembled outside St Mark's Church, Oulton Broad church and paraded through an arch of flags formed by the Colour Parties into the building for 9am.

Lowestoft Journal: Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick HowesLowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The service was led by Team Rector Helen Jary in the presence of the mayor, parents and the local community.

It included a little St George’s sketch with Mr Buck as the dragon and featured prayers, hymns, and readings as well as a renewal of the Beaver, Cub and Scout promises.

Presentations were made to Alan Foreman, who received his Award of Merit, with two Explorers receiving their platinum award.

After the service, District Beaver Leader Gemma Eglington beat out the rhythm on a drum for the marchers to parade through Nicholas Everitt Park, as 1st Pakefield Cubs and Scouts led a procession followed by the colony, pack, and troop of each of the seven groups in the district.

Lowestoft Journal: The salute at the Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick HowesThe salute at the Lowestoft District Scout Association’s St George’s Day parade. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Proud families and locals gathered to watch the march through the park, with the leaders giving a salute to dignitaries assembled on the band stand - which included Waveney MP Peter Aldous.

Speaking after the parade Mr Buck said: "The St George’s Day parade and service has been a tradition of scouting in Lowestoft for years and it still remains important for us.

"It was a great turn out.

"I thank everyone involved - as always, they have all truly amazed me.

"The young people did us proud."