A joyful service to celebrate St George’s Day was organised by 1st Hemyock Scout Group in conjunction with St Mary’s Church.
In glorious sunshine, the young people ,with flags flying , paraded from the primary school to the church for the service led by Lay Team member Becky Doble which, while thoughtful, was full of laughter and enjoyment.
During the service each section of the group – Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and leaders – renewed their Promise with members also leading prayers and giving the reading.
The talk was given by Rikki (aka John Northam) who gave a short history of the group which began with a Cub Pack led by a local teacher.
When she left the area, the late Cecil Ron Lowman, known to all as Skip, took over. He proved to be an inspirational leader over many years and was awarded the BEM for services to Scouting and in particular to the Hemyock group.
Skip would have celebrated his 100th birthday this year and it was a delight to have one of his nieces and her husband at the service.
Rikki led the congregation in a number of well-loved campfire songs ending with The Elephant Dance – a tribute to Skip Lowman – which ended with over 50 youngsters, choristers and congregation members walking around the church singing the well-loved song.
Presentations were made to:
- Chief Acorn Award – Aubrey Williams, Jude Redwood, Otis Legge.
- Chief Bronze Award – Willow Blackmore.
- Chief Gold Award – Patrick McNabb.
The retiring collection of £85 will be donated to Children’s Hospice South West.
BELOW: The start of The Elephant Dance.
