THE Wharfedale Scout District Parade, hosted by the 2nd Otley Scout Group, took place at Otley Rugby Club on St George's Day.
Scouts from across Wharfedale turned out for the parade which took place on pavements from Garnett's Field, along North Avenue and Hamilton Terrace, before turning left into a walkway just beyond Wharfedale Court, turning right into Wharfe Street, up Dennison Hill, turning left onto Cross Green before entering Otley Rugby Club.
Five hundred youth members took part from all over the Wharfedale district, including the following groups: 2nd Otley; Otley Methodist; Menston; Otley Bridge;Burley-in-Wharfedale; Addingham; 3rd Ben Rhydding; 1st Ben Rhydding; Ilkley Christchurch; Explorers and Otley Parish.
They took to the stands in Otley Rugby Club to hear a welcome address by Mark Hargrave, of 2nd Otley Cubs.
The scouts were also addressed by John Binks of 2nd Otley Scout Group on What it is to be English and Mark Hargrave of 2nd Otley Scout Group on Who was St George.
The song, The Bare Necessities was led by Olicanian Brass Quintet.
Scouts took part in an act of rededication to Scouting and St George by renewing the Squirrel and Beaver Scout, Cub Scout and Scout promises.
Special awards were presented to 1st Ben Rhydding Beaver Scout Elwyn Bullock who was awarded the Chief Scout's Personal Award 2023 to acknowledge and recognise his tremendous efforts and sheer determination to try and make a difference for his sister. Elwyn completed a triathlon to fundraise for an Innowalk machine for his sister, who has cerebral palsy. He raised £8,000.
Chief Scout Bear Grylls said he was bowled over by Elwyn's incredible achievements.
County Vice President Mark Stageman BEM, Dan Breeze Assistant County Commissioner for Squirrels Scouts, and District Commissioners Paul Jennings and Tim Haskins presented St George's honours awards.
Silver Wolf - the highest award in UK scouting for service of the most exceptional nature was presented to Roger Banister, Peter Bennett and Robin Beaumont.
Silver Acorn - for specially distinguished service was presented to Judith Dickinson, Shelia Southern and Gary Williams.
The Bar to The Award of Merit for outstanding service of keen, conscientious, imaginative, and dedicated service over a sustained period was awarded to Jean Griffin, Sue Williamson, Ian Williamson, Ruth Lawson, Sally Harrison, Beverley Rothery, Liz Williams, Graham Gilberthorpe, Cath Britton and Rob Young.
District Commissioners Paul Jennings and Tim Haskins thanked everyone most sincerely for attending.
David Shaw MBE press officer for Wharfedale District Scouts said: "The sun shone which enabled us all to enjoy a wonderful celebration organised so well by Mark Hargrave, of 2nd Otley Cubs, The 2nd Otley Group leaders and parents."
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