I asked for it and I got it.... a massive turn out at our District Renewal of Promise evening on 27th April. Superbly orchestrated by Keith Fanshawe and a big scout “BRAVO” to all who took part in such an occasion, throughly enjoyed by our invited guests, the County Commissioner, our own local M.P. John Wilkinson and our president Morton Neal. Next year we shall have to find and even bigger venue than Oaklands Gate but it was a real good “do” and didn’t our Scout Fellowship do up proud with the catering afterwards. Congratulations all round to Morton Neal and Pete Stevenson (6th Northwood) on their accolade of a St George’s Day invitation to Windsor Castle to receive their much deserved Silver Acorn award and to Barbara Logan on being awarded her Medal of Merit by the County Commissioner representing the Chief Scout “from whom all medals flow” so to speak. Some from the District team invited Eileen Owsley out for a meal to present her with a silver engraved salver for her twenty plus years as Badge Secretary and wish her a happy retirement. (Ant Knott has taken over badge secretary’s duties). Talking of awards, I have just heard on the grapevine that Valerie Knust has been awarded her 15 year long service certificate and emblem to be presented at the next District

Executive. And your D.C. Is aware of the probability that there are more in the pipeline to recognise the devotion and commitment of leaders in Northwood-Eastcote District; we may be small in numbers but we are huge in commitment to Scouting.

I didn’t think it could but it did ... Rain upon rain at this year’s Chalfont big camp for the county. Remember last year when we were awash, well this year was nearly but not quite as bad. Nevertheless, it was enjoyed by all who went and your D.C. is ever so grateful to 1st Northwood for their hospitality and to “Jack Daniels” who kept the leaders sustained. On the Sunday I visited 6th Northwood Cubs at Phasels to see just how they had coped with the appalling conditions. I came to the conclusion that cubs and scouts are hardy weather-beaten creatures who can survive and all credit goes to the stamina and will power of leaders and parents alike who make camping so enjoyable for our young people. I gather other cub camps got much better weather a week or so later and now the troops are off to their camps and so we wish