Scouts and their pack leaders were out in force at the weekend for the annual St George’s Day celebrations.

More than 630 youngsters paraded from Wimbledon Common to the Church of the Sacred Heart in Edge Hill, where they renewed their scout promises in front of a gathering of 700, including the mayor of Merton, Councillor David Chung.

Canon John Clark delivered a humorous and thought-provoking piece on being prepared, and a collection was held which raised more than £250 for the mayor’s charities - the Merton Centre for Independent Living and Friends in St Helier Hospital.

This year’s celebration of St George, who was declared the patron saint of scouting by the movement’s founder Robert Baden-Powell, will be the last to be presided over by Joe Rogerson as District Commissioner.

After seven years in the role he has been appointed County Commissioner for the County of Surrey.

Mr Rogerson addressed the assembly and encouraged youngsters to follow the principles of scouting and guiding and continue learning skills and doing good for others.

Merton Police and Merton Council assisted the parade by arranging a Traffic Management Order free of charge.