HUNDREDS of people gathered in Brecon town centre today to watch Wales’s senior infantry regiment parade through the town to mark St David’s Day Parade.

The Welsh Guards were due to parade in Brecon last year but the event was postponed because of heavy snowfall brought by the Beast from the East.

This year the weather was dry, alternating between cloud and short spells of sunshine.

The parade began from the bottom of Priory Hill at 11.30am after a private service, which included dignitaries such as the Deputy Lieutenant of Powys Nicola Watson, the Mayor of Brecon Cllr Manny Trailor and High Sheriff of Powys Cllr David Price, was held at Brecon Cathedral.

The parade, which was led through the town by the Band of the Welsh Guards, then halted at the Wellington Hotel in The Bulwark.

Outside the hotel Powys council’s chairman Cllr David Meredith and council leader Cllr Rosemarie Harris were among the waiting dignitaries and Cllr Meredith presented leeks to the regiment.

The Guards then marched to Theatr Brycheiniog where a reception was due to take place this afternoon.

Before the parade, Cllr Meredith said: “The Welsh Guards have a proud history and we are delighted that they are coming to Powys for their annual St David’s Day Parade.

“Unfortunately last year’s parade was cancelled due to heavy snow, so we feel privileged to welcome them this year.”