Wharfedale Scout District held a St George's Day Parade and Service in Ilkley on Sunday 19 April 2026.
Groups from 2nd Otley, Otley Bridge, Otley Methodists, Menston, Ilkley 1st Ben Rhydding, Ilkley Christchurch and Addingham joined together at Ilkley's Riverside and All Saints Church to celebrate Scouting’s Patron Saint St George.
Organised by the Addingham Group, a re enactment of The Story of St George was performed by Cubs & Scouts lead by Maz & Paul Jennings.
Rev. Shannon DeLaureal, Methodist Minister at Addingham and Burley, gave an address about the strong messages from the St George story stressing that we all play a part in Rescuing those most vulnerable in our society and helping those in need.
A competition to include the smartest Group on Parade took place, with the overall winner awarded to 1st Ben Rhydding Group. Their trophy was presented by District Chair Mike Wild.
David Shaw MBE, Chair of the Awards Board said:
"We renewed our Promises which is our duty to our Country, God & King & our commitment to always do our best & help other people & Keep our Scout Law.
"We are extremely grateful to All Saints Church and Vicar Mike Coe for allowing us to use their and facilities."
Refreshments were served after the service with lovely cookies raising money for the Peru County Trip.
David Shaw MBE added:
"On behalf of all our Scouting family here in West Yorkshire we wish 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.
"These Awards recognise truly exemplary service to young people and volunteers across our Scouting family."
County of West Yorkshire Lead Volunteer, Toby Hammond presented awards to Leaders as follows:
John Sharpe – 1st Ben Rhydding Group
AWARD OF THE SILVER WOLF – APRIL 2026: the Highest Award in UK Scouting for service only of the most exceptional nature.
Rob Pawson – Burley Scout Group
AWARD OF THE SILVER ACORN – APRIL 2026: for Specially distinguished services to The Movement.
The Bar to The Award of Merit – April 2026.
Paul Jennings – Addingham Group & Wharfedale District: this represents further outstanding service of keen, conscientious, imaginative, and dedicated service over a sustained period.
The Award of Merit
Naomi McMorn – Menston St John’s & Wharfedale District
AWARD OF MERIT – April 2026
St George’s Day Awards: This represents outstanding service of keen, conscientious, imaginative, and dedicated service over a sustained period.
The Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service
Lisa Nutton – Addingham, Reva Sailing Centre & Curly Hill Campsite
Adam Smithson – Otley Bridge
Chief Scout’s Commendation Award – April 2026: Awarded in respect of not less than 5 years good service, which stands out. It should be regarded as the Chief Scout's recognition of the very real contribution made to the Scouts by the individual concerned.
Wharfedale Scouts welcome offers of adult Volunteers to support Scouting in the area with groups and campsites, plus Duke of Edinburgh Award service opportunities.
If young people also wish to join Scouting from age 4 to 25 please contact via Facebook or Lead Volunteer Wharfedale districtlead@wharfedalescouts.org.uk
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