Hundreds of youngsters from schools in Gravesham are taking part in celebrations for St George’s Day today.

The festivities have been organised by Kent Equality Cohesion Council in partnership with Cohesion Plus supported by Gravesham council in what will be some of the biggest celebrations taking place in England.

Work has been taking place in schools over the past eight weeks to prepare visual arts and craft displays which will be used during the parade.

Schools taking part in the parade, which started at 10am are: Thamesview, Chantry Community, White Hill, Ifield School, Holy Trinity, Cobham, Wrotham Road, Riverview Juniors, Westcourt, Shears Green Junior and infants, Rosherville, Cecil Road, Saint George’s, Painters Ash, Northfleet School for Girls, St John’s primary and secondary, and Meopham Community Academy.

The parade also features the Premier Brass Band, West Hill Morris Dancers, Four by Four Dhol Drummers, the town crier and Saint George in full armour.

The focal point of parade will be a model of Saint George which has been made by the children.

Director of Kent Equality Cohesion Council Gurvinder Sandher, who organised the event, said: “As ever we have had an excellent response from the local schools and our community partners.

“I am very passionate about Saint George’s Day as I believe it is an important way of bringing communities together and celebrating what it means to be English today in a culturally diverse society.

"We need to all share common values and beliefs and Saint George’s Day is one such opportunity.

“I hope that the communities in Gravesham will come out and support the celebrations and wave the flag of Saint George.”