At Family Camp Neil stepped down as GSL. For 27 years he supported the Group in this role, a solid foundation on which the activity side of scouting was able to take place. He was our figure head but also our line manager. He kept us safe, freed from the paperwork he dealt with, supported, advised and if necessary, directed. His broad shoulders have kept us aloft. But like a swan much of the work took place out of sight leaving only the surfaces traces of this elegant progress.
But of those surface traces, the day to day Neil amongst us supporting activities, at the hut with scouts, cubs, beavers and lately squirrels, on family camp, on summer camp and on any number of events where he stepped in, we all have our memories, and that is why I asked the leaders to picture Neil and tell J what images were conjured up. J captured them in a series of cartoons for Neil to keep as a reminder of the fun we have had and the high regard he is held in.
These are reproduced here with a little explanation where needed.
We must take this time to say a huge thanks to Neil for the wonderful support he has provided for Worting Scout Group.
Thank you Neil
A fitting reflection on the leadership life and times of our fine upstanding GSL as he makes way for less paperwork, more cricket, more golf and less earache! Thank you Neil, you’ve been a star – supporting, mentoring, advising, watching and just plain listening so effectively throughout your time as our figurehead. It’s a real bonus to have shared memories crafted so delightfully by J but there will be many more – you remain as our Treasurer and you will always be regarded as a very special Worting Treasure.