4th Ashby, and the tools around it

I joined Cubs on my 8th birthday with the new Seeonee Cubs at Ashby (Hastings) Scout Group. I moved up to Scouts, earned my Chief Scout’s Award, supported the Troop and became a leader at 18.

I ran Cubs and Scouts from 1997 to 2001, then Scouts at Market Bosworth. In 2005 I became Assistant Scout Leader at 4th Ashby and have been Group Scout Leader (now Group Lead Volunteer) since 2006. I started a second Beaver Colony and, at various times, led the Group to four Beaver Colonies, four Cub Packs and two Scout Troops.

I have taken Scouts camping for more than 250 nights, with expeditions in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada. I hold permits for rock climbing, abseiling and zip wire and have supervised climbing and abseiling sessions. I have planned and promoted regional camps and activities for up to 600 young people.

As a trustee I have served on the District and County Executives (twice) and worked on projects including the sale of the old headquarters, a development fund, and updates to the shop and website. I was awarded the Medal for Merit in 2016.

Since Covid I have run two Troops as well as leading the Group, and helped make Donisthorpe Scout Centre a strong place to do Scouting today. I am motivated to get as many young people into Scouting as possible.