The annual St George's Day Parade by Wharfedale Scout District took place on Sunday at Otley Rugby Club.
Groups attending to celebrate Scouting’s Patron Saint St George were from 2nd Otley, Otley Bridge, Menston, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Ilkley 1st Ben Rhydding, Ilkley Christchurch & Addingham.
The event was organised by The Districts Explorer Groups 14 to 18 year olds. Adam The Explorer Leader from Burley in Wharfedale Lead the activities events which included Beaver Scouts 6 to 8 year olds – fun assault course, Cub Scouts 8 to 10 year olds – Fun Assault course and Scouts 10 to 14 year olds - build a shelter from scratch including full lashings & knots.
A competition to include the smartest Group on Parade took place. The overall Winner was Menston St Jonn’s Group, who were presented with their trophy from County of West Yorkshire Lead Volunteer, Toby Hammond, to their Group Leader to Naomi McMorn, Lead Volunteer Menston St Johns.
David Shaw MBE, The Chair of the Awards Board said:
“We renewed our Promises which is our duty to our Country, God & King and our commitment to always do our best and help other people & Keep our Scout Law.
“This is the Third year Otley Rugby Club have hosted this event. We are extremely grateful to them for allowing us to use their ground & facilities which enables us to sit comfortably, Parade & carry out various activities which results in a memorable day for our young People.”
A role call for Awards for Leaders was carried out with some members attending the Windsor Castle Parade with The New Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields
Craig Grandison, Chairperson of Menston Group received the Award of Merit, this represents outstanding service of keen, conscientious, imaginative, and dedicated service over a sustained period.
David adds:
“On behalf of The District Leads Tim and Paul, The County Lead Ian, The Wharfedale Awards Board Chairs plus Mark Stageman, the County Award Board’s chair, may I offer huge congratulations indeed to all those listed below.
“These Awards recognise truly exemplary service to young people and volunteers across our Scouting family.
“On behalf of all our Scouting family here in West Yorkshire, The County Lead Ian wishes to thank all of you at this special time for your exemplary service, your unswerving commitment to Scouting and most importantly for all you have done to create so many special memories for the young members of our Scouting County.”
The Full List of St George’s Day Awards for Scout Leaders are:
Silver Acorn: for specially distinguished and appreciably better than outstanding service.
Trevor Oates – 2nd Otley
Alan Pratt – Otley Methodists
The Bar to The Award of Merit: this represents further outstanding service of keen, conscientious, imaginative, and dedicated service over a sustained period.
Nicola Carter – 1st Ben Rhydding
Matthew Carter – 1st Ben Rhydding
The Award of Merit:
Craig Grandison – Menston
Robin Guy – 2nd Otley
Mark Hargrave – 2nd Otley
Tim Haskins – District
Roy Ruddle – 2nd Otley
Adrian Stacey – District Explorers/Otley Bridge
Beryl Thompson – Burley in Wharfedale
Howard Thompson – Burley in Wharfedale
Corey Woodhouse – 1st Ben Rhydding
The Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service:
Conrad Easton – Otley Parish
Robert McCandless – 2nd Otley
Helen Turner – 2nd Otley

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