Numbers on the march, which had been pencilled in this year for April 19, have nearly trebled since it started ten years ago. But organisers will still have to go to the local council to seek permission for road closures.

Sandwell councillors chose to push ahead with their own plans to celebrate St George’s Day instead of the parade, with a “family-friendly” party and town hall concert.

The authority will also be stopping political speakers at its St George’s Day events and vetting those who do take part.

Sandwell’s leader, Coun Bill Thomas, said: “Sandwell Council has a proud tradition of celebrating St George’s Day. We are fully committed to it and this year will be spending more than £38,000 on celebrating this special day.”

The authority spent £34,000 on St George’s Day last year.