PATRIOTISM swept through south Cumbria as St George's Day was marked with pomp and circumstance.

The sun was shining in Barrow as veterans took to the streets to celebrate the day.

Proceedings began with a presentation of roses to standard bearers outside Barrow Town Hall.

The presentation was made by the town mayor, councillor Anita Husband, who said: "I'm absolutely honoured to be involved today.

"You can't really say in words because it's just brilliant.

“I'm always pleased to do the parades, any parades, they're all fantastic in this town, but this one is so important as well.”

Among the veterans attending were representatives from the former King's Own Royal Border Regiment, the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment and the army cadets.

The parade marched from the town hall to St George's Church, with spectators lining the streets and watching from nearby windows.

The parade was led by Ulverston Town Band, with veterans from the Royal British Legion Riders Branch bringing up the rear.

Gill Benjamin, secretary of the band, said: "We have never done this parade before so it is a new experience for us and one we're grateful for.

"It's a nice day which always makes it better. If you're marching and it's pouring down it's no fun.

"It's great to support these kind of events and keep them going every year."

The parade assembled in St George's Church, the oldest in Barrow, for a special service to mark the occasion.

The service was led by Canon Gary Cregeen, team rector for south Barrow.

He said: "The town has come together to celebrate St George today and it's fitting to do that in St George's church.

"We continue to be inspired by people like St George with his passion and conviction.

"Eventually he paid the ultimate price.

"He is an inspiration to both to our existing service men and women today as well as those who serve in a variety of ways, often in challenging situations."

Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock was also in attendance for the parade, after speaking at the Barrow branch of the Royal Society of St George on Friday night.

He paid tribute to the "patriotic" work done in the Barrow shipyard, saying: "I know the whole town has a deep sense that the work they do is in the service of their country."