THE LORD Provost’s Youth Parade provided a spectacular city centre procession on Saturday.

The fourth annual parade was the centrepiece of a three-day youth festival given an international flavour by representatives from Dundee’s twin cities.

Around 800 singers, dancers, scouts, cheerleaders, members of karate clubs, community groups and primary schools took part in the parade which left from Dundee High.

Representatives from Orleans in France, Alexandria in the US, Wurzburg in Germany and Nablus, in the Palestinian territories, all joined in the weekend of festivities, as a youth from each city carried their own flag.

From Meadowside the parade passed down Reform Street, High Street, Nethergate and past the City Churches, finishing at the City Square, where groups then took over with activities and demonstrations.

Stalls were set up in High Street, as well as the army’s climbing frame, Air Training Corps’ Harrier cockpit and stands from the Young Scot Organisation, the Dundee Guide Association, The Space and The Corner.

Lord Provost John Letford said the programme demonstrated that youth and international links are greatly valued in Dundee.

He said, “I think there are 800 in this year’s parade which is a terrific turnout. The Youth Festival weekend is a fantastic thing for the city—in fact, it is one of the most important events in the calendar for young people.

“On Friday night we had a cabaret dinner at the Apex Hotel and it was so nice to see all the young people up dancing at the ceilidh. It’s fabulous to see young people getting together.

“The intention of twinning is for cultural exchanges, education and research and this youth festival provides great experiences for young people. There are no barriers or language problems and it really has been a superb get-together.

“What has been done for twinning in Dundee has been mirrored in Alexandria, for example, opening up so many opportunities for young people in our city.

“I would like to thank the people of Dundee for their continued support for all we do. There are so many committed and talented people in this city—that is evident in today’s parade.

“This celebration of young people aims to further strengthen lasting friendships, understanding and mutual respect through the sharing of cultures and dialogue,” he said.

Before the parade started, an official twinning lunch was held in the City Chambers when elected members and officers of Dundee City Council joined representatives of the Twin Cities Associations and other invited dignitaries.

On Saturday evening delegates attended a dinner in the Glass Pavilion restaurant in Broughty Ferry, with entertainment from the representatives of Wurzburg.