St George’s Day parades in Gravesham and Dartford were “some of the biggest celebrations in England”, according to organizers.

Some 1,600 children from 30 local schools marched the streets of Kent yesterday (April 23) alongside entertainers, community groups and members of the public.

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Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE with local school kids

Both town’s mayors, Cllr John Caller of Gravesham and Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE of Dartford, addressed the crowds.

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Event organiser Gurvinder Sandher, 'St George' and Cllr John Caller

The parade began in Gravesham at 10am and finished at Central Park in Dartford at 2.30pm, where flag wavers sang Land of Hope and Glory.

CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council Gurvinder Sandher said: “Events like Saint George’s Day provide an opportunity to bring together our communities young and old, urban and rural regardless of faith or ethnicity and to celebrate our common values.

“What a positive impact events like this can have in promoting positive community relations and showcasing excellent in the arts.”

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Pic: Jason Arthur

Entertainment included stilt walkers, brass bands, dance troupes, drummers, a town crier, St George in full armor and medieval court jesters.