The sun was shining upon around 1,000 children and adults from 22 Scouts groups who donned their uniforms, complete with group scarfs and woggles, and set off from West Cliff Gardens at 10am on Sunday, April 26.
Led by the flag bearers and the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band, the Scouts paraded to the Bournemouth International Centre to renew their Scout Promise, before continuing to Bournemouth Lower Gardens where they were received by the Mayor of Bournemouth.
Kevin Abrook, district event lead for the Scouts and parade organiser, said: “We’re here to acknowledge the achievements of young people and adults that have so over the year in scouting.”
He added: “It’s amazing to see so many people here. It just goes to show that there are good youth in the town and good things happen.”
St George, patron saint of Scouts, symbolises courage and perseverance.
Marked on April 23, St George’s Day sees Scouts across the UK parade in uniform, renew their promise, attend services, and celebrate achievements with badges and awards in inclusive, often outdoor or multi-faith community events.
Bournemouth Scouts St George’s Day parade from West Cliff Gardens before a celebration in the Lower Gardens. (Image: Richard Crease)
Jeremy Sullivan, scout lead of the 35th Bournemouth Sea Scouts, has been involved with the Scouts for more than 30 years, said: “The day is really about the celebration of the Scouts who’ve achieved notable awards.”
He added: “It reminds the public that we’re still about and that we’re quite a big youth organisation.”
Jeremy said the group gives young people “skills for life” such as teamwork.
Bournemouth Scouts St George’s Day parade from West Cliff Gardens before a celebration in the Lower Gardens. (Image: Richard Crease)
Simon Blake, of Bournemouth First Scouts, said he had taken part in approximately 30 such parades in Bournemouth before.
“It’s good to show what scouting is all about, to show the number of scours, do a nice display and show everybody what we’re all about,” Simon said.
“It draws community together. Scouting is a very community orientated organisation and so I think it’s nice to show that off a little bit.”
Bournemouth Scouts St George’s Day parade from West Cliff Gardens before a celebration in the Lower Gardens. Parade Marshall Paul Sutton. (Image: Richard Crease)
Paul Sutton, of Bournemouth First Scouts and the parade marshal for 2026’s St George’s Day parade, said the Scouts remain important for young people.
“It’s important for picking up skills, social skills, practical skill, getting enjoyment, working with other people in an organisation that is worldwide with hundreds of millions of members.”
Bournemouth Scouts St George’s Day parade from West Cliff Gardens before a celebration in the Lower Gardens. (Image: Richard Crease)
Paul added: “You seen people from the age of six starting off as very, very shy to much older. Some of these [children] I’ve known since they were six and they are now much older and still love it and are still here at the age of 16, 18, 50, 90, you know?”
Kevin encouraged anyone thinking of giving scouting a try to take the leap: “Come along and get joined in. We’re always looking for young people and always looking for adults to come help and volunteer. Come and help us.”