The Scout Association recently introduced long Service Certificates for 5, 10 and 40 years in addition to those for 15 and 25 years. This has resulted in some 67 certificates being awarded this year. We were very fortunate that the Mayor agreed to attend two special presentation occasions at the Municipal Hall.

The Scout Association are currently reviewing the program and uniform with the aims of moving them in to the 21^st Century and beyond. The prospects are that we shall have 5 sections (an additional one being added at the 14 to 18 age group - taking the older Scouts and younger Ventures). The upper age limit for Venture Scouts will be moved from 20 to 25.

This will help offer Scouting to young people within narrower age bands.

The District have awarded some special awards to Members this year. These include;

• Silver Acorn - 'In recognition of specially distinguished service'
  • Mr C Back - GSL Bishops Lydeard
• Bar to Medal of Merit - 'Awarded for further outstanding service'
  • Mr C Clark - GSL West Hatch
  • Mr J Read - Hill walking adviser
• Chief Scout's Commendation - 'In recognition of good service'
  • Mr R Berry - Canoeing advisor
  • Mr D Eele - District Cub Scout Leader
  • Mr G Bell - District Venture Scout Leader

Next year Huish Woods will celebrate 40 years and plans are being made for special celebrations. What this space!

The census figure for the last four years are;