A Popular Halesowen cub scout leader has retired after more than half a century's dedicated service.

Janet Butler began volunteering with Howley Grange Scout Group 58 years ago, when she was aged just 14, stepping up as leader of the cub section a few years later.

The 72-year-old grandmother of two called it a day at her last meeting on Thursday December 20, saying an emotional farewell to the group.

Thousands of youngsters aged 8 to ten have passed through the cub pack which meets weekly at the Scout Headquarters in Bournebrook Crescent, during Janet's time as leader, enjoying hundreds of activities, camps and events.

In 2017, Janet was recognised for her dedication when she was presented with the Scout Association’s Silver Acorn medal, awarded for exception voluntary service to the movement.

Andy Shepherd, Romsley cub group's leader, said: "Janet has been a wonderful leader over the years. She was actually my mentor when I started as a cub leader many years ago and has run a very successful cub pack.

"She has been an inspiration to so many children and young people over the years."

Janet, of Halesowen Road, who is known as Akela, is married to group scout leader Rex Butler, who will continue in his role.

Over the years she has also organised large-scale events for the ten Cub Scout Packs across Halesowen District.

Parents, cubs and leaders gathered at her last meeting for a special presentation during which Janet was given a cut glass vase and flowers as a thank you for her dedication.

Assistant leader Rose Morris has stepped up as leader for the group,

Janet and Rex, who ran a chain of Special Occasions card shops across the Black Country until their retirement, have a daughter Kate Butler.

Their two grandsons, Kate's children Dylan, aged eight, and Stanley, aged six, are keeping it in the family as they are both members of scouting groups in Kinver.