85th anniversary honour for Carrick

The event, which is held every year on the Sunday closest to St. George’s Day (23 April), attracted 400 Scouts - from six-year-old Beavers to 18-year-old Explorers - and their leaders.

They braved strong winds and wintery showers to parade from Carrickfergus harbour via Marine Highway, Joymount, High Street and Market Place to Saint Nicholas’ Church.

District chaplain, Rev Mark Taylor, led the service themed on helping and assisting other people.

This year the nominated charity was ‘Stand By Me’. The money from the church offering will be added to that already collected by the Scouts and used to provide 100 filters that will ensure clean water for 100 families in an African village.

During the service, District Commissioner Oliver Townsend presented long service awards to a number of leaders, including a 25 Year Service Award to Gary Grange, 7th Larne Group and a 50 Year Service Award to Dr Ron Cole, District Secretary and formerly Scout Leader of 1st Jordanstown.

Magheramorne Silver Band, assisted by Star of Knockagh Accordion Band, led the parade, retracing their steps back to Carrickfergus harbour. Following the playing of the National Anthem, the parade was dismissed.

To find out more about Scouting and groups in South East Antrim, log on to www.greenseas.org.uk