Doug’s given 70 years to his scout group

A MAN who has dedicated 70 years of his life to scouting and who has been described as an inspiration to the young people of Leek, has been put forward for an award.

Doug Rogers joined 2nd Leek Scouts, aged seven, as a cub scout in 1948. Now he has been nominated for a Moorlands Heroes Special Recognition award by Debbie Potts.

Debbie said: “To dedicate 70 years of your life to one organisation is worthy of an award. While there are long service awards in scouting I feel that the community of Leek should acknowledge the inspiration and time that he has given to the young people of the town.

“It would also be a very fitting tribute to him in the Groups Centenary year. Doug still volunteers as a leader each week. He joined 2nd Leek, aged seven, as a cub scout in 1948. He gained his Queen’s Scout Badge in 1959 and went to Windsor for the annual parade.

“He then became cub leader in 1967 after being an assistant leader. Doug became Group Scout leader in 1968. In fact there have only been four Group Scout Leaders in the 100 years of the Group.

“In 2012 he stepped down as GSL with Jon Lloyd taking over. Doug continues as assistant GSL and he also still volunteers as a Beaver leader every Monday evening.

“Throughout his 70 years in Scouting he has remained dedicated to providing young people in our town the opportunity to try different activities and to work towards badges and awards within the scouting movement.

“He has trained most of the band members as he was a keen drummer who also played with a local dance band. Over the years he has paraded with the group leading the band at many community events. He also took part in the groups fundraising Scout Shows often taking a lead singing role.

“Doug says that one of his most memorable moments was getting his Queens Scout award at Windsor. When we had the exhibition earlier in the year lots of former members had fond memories of their time in the group and all could remember Doug and the major part he played in their Scouting lives.”

Doug is pictured, below, at the Group’s Centenary reunion along with Jon Lloyd the current Group Scout Leader.