The flag of St George is flying over civic building in Wirral as the borough celebrates the patron saint of England's special day.

Compared with the excitement and fun associated with the saints days of Wales, Scotland and Ireland, England's moment has been far more subdued in recent years.

This year, however, a conscious effort is being made across the country to make more of April 23.

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, has suggested a public holiday to mark the patron saint's day could help promote unity.

In Wirral, up to 600 Scouts will assemble in West Kirby on Sunday for a parade to celebrate the saint.

The Scouts will march from Orrysdale Road, along Grange Road through to Meols Drive, attending services at the Methodist Church in Westbourne Road, United Reform Church at Bridge Road and St Andrew's Church in Graham Road.

The Scout Association hold St George as their patron saint as his character of bravery, courage and thinking of others was considered by the founder Baden Powell to be the basis of Scouting.

During the services, collections will be made for Claire House.

Roads through West Kirby will be closed to through traffic by the police from 2.10pm to approximately 2.30pm, and then for the return parade back to Orrysdale Road the main route will be closed from around 3.25pm to 3.45pm.

West Wirral District Scout Association says it would like to thank Merseyside Police and the Rotary Club for their support.