More than 4,500 scouts and guides this morning held their annual parade in Valletta.

The parade, which started in Floriana before the participants walked down Republic Street and up Merchants Street, included the participation of many elderly, adults and children, showing the movement’s broad and ongoing appeal.

President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who took the salute in Palace Square, was seen visibly enjoying herself as she watched the parade, often blowing kisses towards some of the younger scouts and guides as they walked by.