Some 5,000 scouts and guides held their annual parade in Valletta yesterday, marching smartly behind different bands in the streets of the capital in the colours of their respective groups.

The parade kicked off with Mass at the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana, attended by a selection of North District Groups from the Scouts and Guides.

This year, the parade was led by the North District followed by the South District, Central District and Gozo District.

Parade included participation of many people of all ages

It left the Granaries and marched down Republic Street to St George’s Square where President George Vella, patron of the scouting and guiding associations, stood on a dais outside the Palace and was accorded the salute. The parade continued up Merchants Street proceeding to Castille Square for the fallout.

Yesterday’s parade included the participation of many people of all ages: elderly, adults, youths and younger children in their capacity as cubs, brownies, scouts, ventures and guides.

Several bands participated as hundreds of people, including many parents, proudly watched.