hirty six leaders and administrators from Galloway District Scout Council met in Twynholm Village Hall for their annual conference.
Delegates were welcomed by district chairman Drew Low who announced he was stepping down as chairman to take the role of Galloway District President.
It was then announced that the area’s new chairman will be Bob Peace.
The day got off to a good start with a presentation from Calum Lorimar a member of the association’s Scottish HQ staff.
Calum’s presentation was followed by an informative delivery from Galloway and Southern Ayrshire’s Biosphere’s Jenna Cains.
After a short break Bob Peace and Dr Stephanie Johnston from the Galloway Squirrel Group and the Dumfries and Galloway Pine Marten Group respectively gave a presentation of how pine martens are helping the defence of red squirrels.
All these presentations will be taken back to weekly meetings of Galloway’s youth members and used in an environmental training theme.
The next part of the day was spent organising district wide Scouting events for the forthcoming year which include, Beaver Fun Day, Scouts Night Hike and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award among other activities.
Adult presentations were an important part of the day with long service, training and meritorious awards being made.
Two awards of “The Silver Wolf” were presented to Violet Service and Nigel Scott.
“The Silver Wolf” is the unrestricted gift of the Chief Scout and is only awarded for service of the most exceptional nature.
A final award was made to Drew Low for his outstanding service to local and Scottish Scouting, Nigel Scott, the District’s support unit manager, presented Drew with a commemorative plate handcrafted by Hannah Fitch, Cub leader and local potter.
Mr Scott said: “This was the first time leaders had met for over two years due to the pandemic.
“Covid-19 has hit the movement really hard with around a 20 per cent loss in membership as well as an inability to raise operational funds. However, it was great to meet face to face and a lot of progress was made in getting back to delivering Scouting across Galloway.”
The day was deemed a success and brought to a close with thanks to the Cocoabean Chocolate Factory for providing the catering and thanks go to all Galloway’s Leaders.
Service awards
Five year service award – David Crudgington, Lisa Maxwell, Lesley Robbins.
Ten year service award – Kirk Connor, Marion Gourlay, Agnes Stocks.
25 year service award – Hannah Fitch, Allison Tyson.
40 year service award – Nigel Scott, Alan Sidaway.
Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service – Kirk Connor, Jennifer Russell.
Award for Merit – Douglas Brown, Robert Peace, Christine Rankin, Annette Torbet, David Wishart.
