The town mayor, Cllr Martin Bishop, who is commencing his second term, led dignitaries, councillors and uniformed groups on the annual parade through the town.

With a different church chosen each year, St. Paul’s church in Reading Road was this year’s venue, with the troupe setting off from the town hall in Market Place.

Taking to the streets last Sunday [8], they were joined by the police, the fire service, the army, army cadets, guides and scouts, and Saint Sebastian Wokingham Band.

With borough mayor Cllr UllaKarin Clark, and deputy town mayor Cllr Philip Mirfin joining in the parade, Cllr Mirfin said: “I think it’s been held since the commencement of the town council!

“I’m a big believer in tradition, that’s partly what the town council is about and we try to retain the tradition - we even have a town crier.

“It’s nice for our children and our children’s children, so they can enjoy and understand the background.” Councillors and staff had a whip round to buy a present for Maurice Chapman, the parade marshal since 1995.

Recently retiring from the post, they bought a 'swagger stick’ - typically used in the army - with a special plaque on it.

Cllr Mirfin said: “He was shocked - he was not expecting it. He’s kept us in order all these years, making sure we’re all smarty and shiny.”