SCOUTS and Guides have gathering in York to celebrate St George's Day.

Around 2000 young people from York and surrounds - the youngest just five years old - paraded through the city as part of the annual celebration of England's patron saint, culminating in a special service at York Minster.

The annual procession, which is the largest of its kind in the country, left the Eye of York at 1.15pm and headed along Tower Street, Clifford Street, Nessgate, Spurriergate, Coney Street, St Helen’s Square, Blake Street and Duncombe Place to the Minster.

This year was a return to tradition, with the service going back to the Minster after a year away.

Last year it was unable to host the service last year because it was preparing to stage the 2016 Mystery Plays, and the Museum Gardens near St Mary’s Abbey ruins were used instead.

Girlguiding's Hazel Creaghan said they were delighted to be back in the Minster, and to see the Minster full to capacity.

She added: "It was a really successful event, and it was brilliant to see the Minster absolutely full of people."

The parade was led by the Yorkshire Volunteers Band, with Guides and Scouts from St Chad's performing as well.

Cubs, Brownies, Rainbows and Beavers all took part as well, meaning the parade included everyone from five-year-olds to adults.