Author Archives: Andrew King

The Queen and Bear Grylls recognise top Scouting achievements in West Lancashire

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The four awardees from West Lancashire are; Jenny Barrett, Stuart McMichael, Gemma Roberts and Stephanie Swinden has been honoured by HM The Queen and International adventurer Chief Scout Bear Grylls for gaining their Queen’s Scouts Award.

All the Scouts named in this press release are over the age of 18 and therefore their full names can be published under our policies.
HM The Queen and Bear Grylls greeted over 600 new Queen’s Scouts from across the UK and The Commonwealth at Windsor Castle on Sunday 29th April. The event comes at a boom time for Scouting following last week’s announcement of the Movement’s continued membership. Total numbers now exceed 525,000. Significantly, more and more teenagers are becoming Scouts.

The Queen’s Scout Award is the highest honour in Scouting and is awarded for outstanding personal achievement. This honour is achieved by young people aged between 16 and 25 who have completed a range of challenges, which includes service to their community, completed an expedition in wild country, undertook a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment and learnt a new skill or developing an existing talent.

Jenny Barrett aged 25, from Burscough said, “Gaining my Queen’s Scout Award has been awesome. One of the best things I have ever done in Scouting was having a real adventure completing my expedition. I hiked 50 miles in Dartmoor and it was brilliant. As part of the award I have set up a support network to help more young people achieve awards such as Duke of Edinburgh – this has been very rewarding’.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said “All these young people have lived the adventure of a lifetime to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards, and I admire that spirit so much. They are huge inspirations to all the other Scouts in the UK and I am so pleased that both Scouting has honoured them today. They are amazing.”

The Windsor Castle event has been held regularly since 1934 on a Sunday close to St. George’s Day (23rd April). St. George is the Patron Saint of Scouting. Over 500,000 Scout’s celebrate St. George’s day each year and over 600 Scouts attended the celebration in West Lancashire BC raising £400 for Shelter Box. Scouts from across Ormskirk and the surrounding district would like to thank the hard work of the organisers for putting the event together.

Since the Queen’s Scout Award was instigated, over 100,000 of these awards have been presented to young men and women for outstanding personal achievements and service to their local communities. They have learnt new skills and taken part in many of the 200 different activities on offer by Scouting across the UK.

If you would like to volunteer with Scouting or would like your child to join visit www.scouts.org.uk/join or call 01995613361

‘Boy Scout’ Think Again

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The Scout Association has announced that West Lancashire Scouts have increased for the tenth year on the run, their membership now excides 11,000 and female membership has rocketed. The news comes as details of The Scout Association’s annual census are published today.

There has been a 246% increase in West Lancashire’s female Scouts since 2002. This may be due to the exciting and diverse range of activities Scouting offers like water sports, climbing, zorbing and camping.

Scouting is the larges co-educational youth movement in the UK and prides it’s self on giving young people amazing life changing opportunities locally, nationally and globally.

Gemma, 17, Preston thinks that that girls have joining because ‘Scouting offers so many incredible opportunities all it’s young people from national events to international trips like my life changing visit to Nepal last year. Girls love to have an adventure too!”

Adult Volunteer Andrew, 20, Skelmersdale said ‘here in West Lancashire our youth members have increased again and again and we now have over 11,000 members. Female youth members have continuously increased for over 10 years now. We see this as a great indication that we are getting things right with our program, activities and opportunities. West Lancashire prides it’s self in providing international opportunities to young people giving Lancashire’s youth a chance to see different cultures and ways of life from across the globe.’

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said It is so great to see Scout numbers rising in Lancashire and a big reason for this is the number of teenagers joining the adventure. More and more young people are realising that Scouting offers them so much – whether its the opportunity to go on a big international adventure or the chance to learn and hone vital life skills.

Scouting is all about offering young people amazing life-changing opportunities. If you would like to volunteer your time or would like your child to join visit www.scout.org.uk/join

200 new members in West Lancashire help take Scouting’s numbers to highest this century

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• Annual census: Scout numbers in Lancashire now stand at 11,000
• Growth driven by rise in Explorer Scouts (those aged 14-18) – with an increase of 10.3% in the last 12 months

200 new Scouts in the past twelve months in West Lancashire have helped take the number in the UK to its highest this century. The news comes as details of The Scout Association’s annual census are published today.

Scouting in West Lancashire has grown 1.7% in the past twelve months, helping take total Lancashire membership to 11,000.This impressive increase in membership – the seventh consecutive year of expansion – has helped cement Scouting’s position as the largest co-educational youth Movement in the country.

A large part is of this growth is due to the number of teenagers in West Lancashire joining, with a growth of 10.3% in the last 12 months Explorer Scouts (aged 14-18) signing up in the past year.

The Scout Association believes that the reasons for this growth are twofold.

First, Scouting provides an enormous range of adventures for young people, allowing them to experience the great outdoors. In the UK Members can enjoy more than 200 activities including zorbing, water skiing, abseiling and adventure glider flights.

Second, Scouting offers an environment for young people to achieve their full potential as individuals and responsible citizens. When joining up, all Scouts promise to do their best and help other people. These principles are reflected in the range of community work that Scout groups undertake week in-week out.

A report unveiled last year by consultants PACEC demonstrated the positive impact of Scouting for young people:

• 38% of youth members in Scouting have volunteered for another organisation.
• 40% of voluntary groups surveyed would not be able to get the same amount of work done if Scouts had not been involved
• 36% of former youth Scout members volunteer for 2 hours a week, compared to 26% for the general population

Explorer Scout quote Gemma, 17, Preston said: “Getting involved in Scouting is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only do I get the opportunity to take part in a number of adventures but I also get to put something back into my local community.
Chief Scout Bear Grylls said It is so great to see Scout numbers rising in Lancashire and a big reason for this is the number of teenagers joining the adventure. More and more young people are realising that Scouting offers them so much – whether its the opportunity to go on a big international adventure or the chance to learn and hone vital life skills.

Scouting is all about offering young people amazing life-changing opportunities. If you would like to volunteer your time or would like your child to join visit www.scout.org.uk/join

Royal Recognition for West Lancs Scouts

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Stuart and Gemma
Gemma Roberts and Stuart McMichael from West Lancashire have been invited to Windsor Castle later this month to receive their Queen Scout’s Award – the highest award in Scouting. The two have completed a diverse range of activities to gain the recognition of the award.

To meet the criteria of the award Gemma learnt; to drive, talk Spanish and play piano. She also showed commitment to kayaking and netball. She met the ‘service section’ through coaching Kayaking, Volunteering as a Scout Leader and being Head Girl at Lathom High School, Skelmersdale. Stuart met the criteria by learning to drive and to talk Spanish. He also spent time volunteering as a football coach and as a Scout Leader.

Lynne McMichael an Adult Volunteer from West Lancashire said, “The activities the pair have taken part in are fantastic, from sport coaching to mastering a new instrument or language. This award gave them the opportunity to discover new activities. It also enabled Gemma and Stuart to explore rural Scotland on an 7 day expedition”

Gemma 20 from Skelmersdale said “Scouting has opened many doors for me giving me amazing opportunities. During the experience I learnt not only new practical skill but also many life skills! This award is a summary of all the incredible things I have been involved in. It will be an experience I will never forget!”

Stuart 20 from West Lancashire said “The whole experience has given me a huge feeling of pride and satisfaction. I have worked along side a great bunch of people and it’s been so rewarding – an experience I will never forget!”

Scouting is all about offering young people amazing life-changing opportunities. If you would like to volunteer your time or would like your child to join visit www.ormskirkscouts.org.uk/join

70 Scouts have a ‘Gripping Experience’

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70 girls and boys aged 6-8 have took part in a day of challenge and fun at Ormskirk Scouts indoor climbing wall. Scouts from across West Lancashire spent the day at the indoor climbing wall in Ormskirk earlier this month.

The day started with a treasure hunt but quickly moved onto more challenging activities on the climbing wall. The Scouts took part in teamwork, having to work together with one Scout blindfolded.

Jim Aldridge, Adult Volunteer from West Lancashire said ‘ This is the second year we have ran this event, which is part of the development of this section – to provide a wide range of new fun and challenging experiences for the 6-8 year old Scouts.’ He added ‘Scouting provides opportunities for young people to try new activities that they may not have the opportunity to try elsewhere’.

Vicky, Adult Volunteer from Skelmersdale said ‘ It was a gripping experience. The Scouts had a brilliant day! Scouting in West Lancashire is always looking to offer these opportunities to more young people to do this we need more adult volunteers. If you have skills we could use then come and help!’

If you would like to volunteer with Scouting or would like your child to join visit www.scouts.org.uk/join or call 01995613361

‘Amazing Anna’ is an Olympic Torchbearer

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A 12 year old Ormskrik Scout will be carrying the Olympic Torch through Ormskirk on Friday 1st June 2012.

Anna’s Nomination Story

“It`s twelve years since Anna underwent an emergency lifesaving operation after suffering from bowel disease leaving her with a permanent ileostomy. Anna has had all her large intestine and half of her small intestine removed. She spent the first year of her life as an inpatient in Alder Hey Childrens Hospital and since has adapted to the loss of one of the bodies most important organs. Despite her ongoing disability she has embraced sport to show others that a disability does not hinder you.”

“She competes at a high level in swimming, running and triathlons, both for her school and clubs. She is Junior Captain for a local swimming club, she is also a member of a local athletics club, and Tri Team Wigan triathlon club. Through all this she has earnt the nickname `Amazing Anna` from her peers! She has participated in a number of fundraising events including the Race for Life, Great North Swim and also raising money for the RNLI, Children with Leukaemia and charities for children with similar bowel and bladder dysfunctions. She is also a member of the Girl Guides, Scouts and St Johns Ambulance. She never lets her disability get in the way of anything and always tries her hardest in all she does. She is an inspiration to others and this would be a really memorable occasion for her and at the same time raising awareness as to what others can achieve if they really want to. Anna aspires to be a future Olympic competitor!”

50 Scouts selected for Olympic Torch Relay

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Pamela Tompsett an adult volunteer from West Lancashire will be carrying the Olympic torch through the town of Ormskirk in recognition of her commitment to Scouting.

Pamela has so far given nine years to Scouting as a volunteer and will be carrying the Olympic torch for 300 meters in Ormskirk this summer. She was selected as a torchbearer for her work with teenagers in the UK and overseas. She is passionate about providing young people with a variety of fun, challenging and adventurous activities to help them stretch themselves and develop skills for life.

‘I feel extremely proud and honoured to be selected to carry the Olympic torch. It is fantastic to see Scout Leaders being recognised in such a way for their volunteer work … with young people all over the UK. Scouting is always looking for new volunteers so come and join us so come and join the fun!’ said Pamela.

50 Olympic Torchbearers have been selected for their achievements in Scouting. Torchbearers were chosen from nominees put forward by the general public. To pass nomination, candidates must have made outstanding contributions to their communities and have inspirational personal stories to tell.

‘In that case, it is no surprise that so many Scouts fit the criteria, with countless volunteers contributing to the development of young people through challenging activities and valued community work.’ Said The Scout Association

One of the youngest nominees, Chloe said: ‘I am excited and proud that I can add carrying the Olympic torch to my list of experiences. I am also hoping that from people hearing my story, it will encourage further adults to volunteer in their local groups.’

If you would like to volunteer with us Scouting or would like your child to join visitwww.scouts.org.uk/join or call 01995613361

90 Chief Scout Awardees in West Lancashire

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Chief Scout Gold Award, West Lancashire College Skelmersdale

listen to ‘Gail Stanley on Chief Scout Gold Awards’ on Audioboo

West Lancashire Scouts have awarded 50 girls and boys ages 10 to 14 their Chief Scout Award. This is the highest award attainable for their age. The presentation took place in the new £42Million West Lancashire College in Skelmersdale. Mrs Gail Stanley MBE, JP, DL, presented the awards and Cllr Rob Bailey Mayor of West Lancashire BC offered congratulations.

The event focused on the fun, commitment and personal development the Scouts gained from the award. The award encompass the essence of Scouting, which gives young people the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities from; volunteering, climbing, hiking, rafting, kayaking and even attending international camps in places such as Sweden and Austria.

Tom, 14, Ormskirk said “Through the award I was given the opportunity to volunteer with the younger Scouts (aged 6-8) this has given me leaderships skills and made me more confidence. Scouting has allowed me to take part in skiing and overnight hiking, experience that have changed my life”

“Scouting is not all badges it’s what’s behind these awards; the fun; the friendship and the adventure. Scouting is making a difference to the life’s 10,000 young people across Lancashire and offers fantastic opportunities to millions globally.” Former Awardee and Guest Speaker on the night Harry, 16, Preston

‘As a society, we do tend to get bogged down with ‘you can’t do this, you can’t do that’ and I think it’s a shame – kids lose out on so much of the magic of the outdoors. I want kids to learn how to start fires without matches, build camps, and climb mountains. Our ancestors had these skills for generations and now we are in danger of losing them.’ says Chief Scout Bear Grylls.

Also, congratulations to the 40 Cub Scouts from Ormskirk and District who received their Chief Scout Silver Award earlier in the year. The girls and boys aged 8-10 completed a range of activities including camping, hiking and fitness trainning. The award has a strong personal challenge element that encourage the young people develop a skill or activity personal to their ability.

If you would like to volunteer with us Scouting or would like your child to join visitwww.scouts.org.uk/join or call 01995613361

Entrepreneurial Scout get £1000 boost from Lord Wade

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Lord Wade of Chorlton who has been the President of West Lancashire Scouts for over 14 years, held his retirement luncheon at Leyland Golf Club where he announced his support and a £1000 financial boost for the Scout’s Entrepreneurial Challenge in West Lancashire.

Lord Wade said he hoped that this would stimulate other local business leaders into supporting this initiative either through funding, provision of mentoring, premises or advice and would help to foster the business leaders of tomorrow that our country needs.

The Entrepreneur Challenge aims to develop Scouts’ nature for enterprise through activities which enable them to set up, or create an idea for, a Scouting enterprise or business.

The Luncheon also marked the start of West Lancashire’s New President, Gail Stanley who is a former High Sheriff of Lancashire who recently took up her role. Gail said “She admired the work that Scouts were doing with young people and that she liked how we offered flexible volunteering and welcomed change because Organisations who didn’t adapt to the current youth culture were less likely to succeed.” Click Gail Stanley to hear why she is excited to volunteer with West Lancashire Scouts.

People wishing to join, volunteer with Scouts or offer support for the Entrepreneur Challenge should contact the County Scout Office on 01995 61336 or e-mail fun@westlancashirescouts.org.uk

 

500 Scouts take part in Operation Moonlight 2012

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Trogz Explorer Scouts from Kirkham & Wesham won this year’s evasion exercise in the Ormskirk region called Operation Moonlight 2012. They not only won the trophy for the Explorer Scout category they also won the trophy for the overall competition.

This year’s event, that has been running successfully for 24 years, had the largest ever turnout with over 500 Scouts and Explorer Scouts from all over theWestLancashireCounty, consisting of 90 teams.

On Saturday, 21st January  at 12 noon the young people were set loose and spent the next 9 hours evading teams of catchers and navigating their way to the finish around 10 miles (16.5 km) away as the crow flies. The aim is to find their way to the finish with as many ‘lives’ intact as possible.

Scouts and Explorer Scouts probably added to the distance quite significantly as to avoid the dreaded catchers that take away valuable ‘lives’. This year there were over 90 catchers. (Catchers are also Moonlight Marshals, and whilst trying to catch as many teams as possible for the catcher’s prize they are also there to ensure the safety and well being of the teams.)

Trogz Explorer Scouts provided 2 Teams (4 Members each) this year. Jared Vann (17 years) who was the Team Leader of the winning team said right after the trophies were presented: “I’m tired, but I’m really proud of what we have achieved.”

His Team Mates were Conner Fenton (17 years), Jack Clarke (16 years) and Andrew Glenholme (16 years). Andrew said: “I am ecstatic! I can’t believe we have won this.”

The other team consisted of Rebecca Collett (15 years) who was the team leader, Thomas Carr (14 years), Nathan Brookes, (14 years) and Stefan Blackburn (16 years).

A team of Scouts from Eccleston near Ormskirk won the trophy for the Scout Section. These 11 to 14 year olds also won the trophy last year.

By Fylde MDM Marita Kirkham