THOUSANDS took to the streets in Surrey at the weekend to celebrate St George's Day.
A life-sized dragon was among the attractions on show in Leatherhead on Saturday as part of the town's celebrations.
The puppet was the main fascination amongst visitors, who also took part in a "hunt the shield" competition, face painting and a craft workshop.
The patron saint of England himself was also on show entertaining dozens of children in High Street, which was turned into a medieval road by organisers.
Fools and jesters performed tricks and puppetry, and town manager Lucy Hanson said the success of the day may lead the town centre to hold a similar event next year.
She added: "It was a fantastic day and the sun was shining brightly, which always helps with these events. There was a great atmosphere among the children and parents and that was lovely.
"There is no doubt that the hit of the whole thing was the dragon puppet. It was very big and impressive and the kids were going crazy, taking pictures and the like."
Horley was awash with people as thousands helped celebrate the town's biggest St George's Day party yet.
Stalls crammed the High Street as mini golf, bouncy castles and a petting zoo took over the town's car parks on Saturday.
In lieu of the traditional parade, St George did battle with a dragon designed by local schoolgirl Bethany Horn, nine.
With the town centre draped in red and white bunting, and local musicians entertaining the crowds, residents of all ages took the chance to enjoy a day of fun in the sun.
"Saturday was about giving something back to Horley," said Terry Chellew, chairman of the Horley Association of Traders – the group which organised the event.
"I lost count of the number people who told me it was the best ever and how much they were enjoying the celebrations."
He added: "Our mission is clear: we want to make Horley's St George's Day celebrations the biggest and greatest in the South East."
The sun shone throughout the day and early estimates suggest more than 5,000 people poured into the town to join the party.
"It is great to see the community coming together," said resident Glen Farrelly, 40, who was visiting the fair with his sons Finn, 5, and Joe, 3.
"The sun being out really helps but I think it's one of the best ever."
Lisa Press, 27, added: "It is great; the stalls and all the people are great to see.
"Looking around it is wonderful to see the High Street so busy. It is a really good day."
The traditional fete attractions were supplemented by local trader James Baker who donned the chainmail and tunic to play St George.
He said: "There are so many people and a lot of smiles which is always good."
The Old Crown pub in Bookham staged a display of classic English vehicles on Saturday to celebrate St George's Day and raise cash for charity.
The celebrations will continue this weekend when Scouts and Guides parade down Dorking's High Street at 3pm on Sunday.
The parade of more than 600 young people with their leaders, section flags and a marching band, ends in a ceremony at Dorking Halls.
Both the young people and the leaders will then renew their promises to do their duty, to be loyal and trustworthy, and to help other people.
Organisers have told the Advertiser they hope that people will line the streets to support the Scouts and Guides.
Julia Kielstra, district commissioner for Dorking Scouts, said: "They remember that they must be prepared with the right skills and attitudes to offer assistance when necessary.
"Today, Guides and Scouts still learn how to be valuable parts of the community while having adventures at home and abroad."
Vic Viner, 96, who is still president of the 1st Dorking Scout Group, will again lead the Scouts and can be seen in front of the White Horse Hotel.
