FAMILIES, servicemen and women and community groups were treated to a parade in honour of the patron saint of England.

Southend’s 11th annual St George’s Day parade started outside the Odeon Cinema, at the top of Southend High Street, and made its way through the town centre.

It was led by the RAF Colour Party of 54 Squadron, which has just been awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Southend.

The parade line-up also included members of the armed services, Veterans, representatives of the emergency services, cadets, and youth organisations.

The group marched down the High Street to St John’s Church, in Church Road, for a special service.

After the church service, members of the public joined the parade at the junction of Pier Hill and Royal Mews for an official salute.

St George's Day celebrations also took place Wat Tyler Park, in Pitsea where the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare was also commemorated.

There was a range of medieval armour on display, food, music, dancers and entertainers.

Canvey also pulled out all the stops, with the Castle Point Scouts carrying out their annual renewal of promise parade at the Paddocks Community Centre, Long Road, Canvey.

- See more pictures of St George's Day celebrations in Tuesday's Echo