New leader Steve will boost Scouts
SCOUTING in Lancashire is set to soar after a new county commissioner was appointed to lead one of the biggest and best performing counties in the UK Scout movement.
West Lancashire Scouts has welcomed a new leader after Chorley man Steve Morton was appointed to the role in the same week he celebrated 36 years in Scouting.
Steve will lead more than 3,000 volunteers across West Lancashire Scouts, which stretches across eight districts from Lancaster to Ormskirk.
As county commissioner the 44-year-old is responsible for the overall development of Scouting in Lancashire, managing and supporting all volunteers and increasing membership across the county with a target of 15,000 by 2018.
He commented: “I am delighted and immensely proud to have been selected as the new county commissioner for West Lancashire Scouts.
“I am already looking forward to working with all of our volunteers to continue to provide new challenges and adventures for young people across the county.
“I believe we’ve some of the best volunteers in the world who provide a firstclass adventurous programme in partnership with the young people themselves.
“I fondly remember my first Cub meeting at eightyears-old and am passionate every young person gets the opportunity to enjoy the same feeling and to continue through the movement as I have.”
Steve has been a leader across all sections of Scouting from Cubs to Venture Scouts, going onto become assistant county commissioner (international) and district commissioner before accepting the top job.
He takes over the role from Carl Hankinson who held the position for 10 years.
Steve added: “Carl has done a fantastic job in growing Scouting over the past 10 years and I plan to build on his excellent work, ensuring that we stay strong and continue to make an impact in the heart of our communities.”
Steve has lived in Coppull, Lancashire, for 12 years following a move from Gloucestershire in 2004.