At Reivers District Scouts AGM on Thursday, Stewart Young, Leader of Cumbria County Council stood down as President, having given notice at last year’s AGM. The AGM noted the appointment of John Stevenson, MP as the new President for Scouting in Carlisle and the surrounding area.
Chris Southward, District Chairman said “We have been extremely fortunate to have such high profile supporters of Scouting here in Carlisle, who are great advocates of the amazing work done by our volunteers for our ever growing membership. We are tremendously grateful of Stewart’s support over the last five years and I know that John will be a worthy successor given his valuing of Scouting’s contribution to society.”
Whilst President is an honorary role it can include the promotion of the wellbeing of Scouting in the wider community by assisting to develop relationships between Scouting and other institutions and associations.
John Stevenson like his predecessor Stewart Young is a former Scout; he was a member of the movement in Aberdeen and North East Fife. After joining as a Cub Scout, John progressed through all of the sections, before becoming an adult leader.
John said, “I am delighted to accept the appointment as Hon President of the Reivers District Scouts. I have always been very supportive of the Scout movement which is thriving in Cumbria and I will certainly be doing my best to support and promote them where ever possible. They make a very valuable contribution to our community.”
As the demand for Scouting increases amongst young people, keen to access the opportunities that the Scout Association provides, growth is only curtailed by a lack of adult support. It is hoped that John can help in raising their profile to encourage more adults to join the fun, so that the young people who are missing out get to enjoy the same adventures as he did.
Chris added, “Volunteering with the Scouts is easy, fun and flexible – how much time you give is up to you. Whether helping out once a fortnight, month or term or just at special events, there is bound to be a role everyone can play, and no matter how you get involved, volunteers are trained and supported. Many different volunteer roles are available too – you don’t have to work with young people and for instance, could take up a finance, committee or management role or you may have a practical skill that could be used on the local campsite.”
To find out more and to get in touch check out www.reiversdistrict.org/volunteering/
