Over 100 adult and some youth leaders gathered for the annual presentation of certificates and awards. Commenting after the awards, George said: "The Scouts are a shining example of volunteering and community citizenship in action. In this your 100th anniversary year, all of us owe the Scouts big congratulations and many thanks for all you do. Scouting offers many young people opportunities they wouldnt normally have - whether it be experiencing the great outdoors, a sense of belonging to a great institution, fun, companionship or the virtues of respect and discipline which are part of all team endeavour. All of us working to promote this sort of volunteering should remember that scouting was not - and could not have been - successfully started by Government. Its success lies in going with the grain of the human spirit, through small local teams. We salute you."
Richard Butler, Norfolk Scouts County Commissioner, said: "As a movement the Scouts have grown since 1807 to over 30 million members in 206 countries. Here in Norfolk we are lucky to have 8000 members, across 9 Districts and 1400 volunteer leaders, last year sending 72 young people to last year's Scout jamboree for 40,000 scouts. Norfolk Scouts are in rude health."
Photo: George was guest of honour at the Norfolk Scouts County Commissioners reception in Swaffham.
