Stourbridge District Scouts

Over 400 members of Stourbridge District Scouts attended their annual St Georges Day parade in Mary Stevens Park on Saturday April 21.

The event started with the traditional march from the council offices, down the Queen’s Drive to the bandstand, and was led by the Halesowen Scout Band.

Parading in the sunlight the scouts were honoured to be joined by the Mayor and Mayoress of Dudley, Councillor Dave Tyler and his wife Barbara. The Mayor gave a short speech in which he reminded us of his time in the Scouts and the importance of parents and adult volunteers within the association.

Several members were awarded long service awards while others received their Queen’s Scout Awards.

Andrew Cook of 4th Wollaston and Jenny Randle, ADC Cubs and Explorer Scout leader were awarded their Commissioner’s Commendation, an award given to those who go above and beyond their duties within Scouting.

A host of activities were available for all members and the public to join in with. Fire lighting, zip wire and air-rifle shooting; laser-tag and all sorts of bouncy games.

The resuscitation team from Russells Hall Hospital joined us with their equipment and spent their time teaching adults and young members the carry out first aid, CPR and how to deal with a person who might be choking.

The Burcot woodturners gave us their support once again and they proved to be as popular as ever assisting Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts and Scouts in turning wooden woggles and dibbers amongst other items.

Other activities included a coconut shy, a climbing wall and our very own St George who turned up in full battle armour. He took on those who fancied trying out what it was like to be a Knight going into battle.

This event was an opportunity for young people and adults to enquire about joining Scouting.

We have grown by 72 young people this last year and we still have 54 young people on waiting lists.

To find out more about Scouting go to www.scouts.org.uk/joinin