FLAGS and drums were proudly paraded and played through Southend to celebrate St George’s Day.

Although England’s patron saint’s day was last week, many events took place over the weekend.

Representatives from the Naval and Military Club, Royal British Legion, and other organisations, held their flags high on Sunday as they walked to St John’s Church, in Church Road, for a special service.

Following the service, the deputy mayor, councillor Andrew Moring, took the march past at the junction of Royal Terrace and the High Street.

Refreshments were then provided at the Naval and Military Club, in Royal Terrace.

The parade was first held in Southend about 20 years ago.

Echo: Proud to be an Englishman – Roy Lathrope took part in the parade

Echo: Helping hands – no one was left out of the festivities

Echo: Saying it with music – a marching band accompanies the parade

Echo: Marching – youngsters keep their eyes ahead

Echo: Army Cadets in the parade