Veteran Scout leader Vernon invited to awards event

A VETERAN Scout leader was guest of honour at a celebration to mark the anniversary of a facility he founded a quarter of a century ago.

Vernon Henry, 97, a Scout leader for 63 years in North West Cheshire, received a special invitation to the Mersey Weaver Scout Awards, involving groups from across the region.

At the event, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, leaders and support staff all celebrated the 25^th anniversary of The Hideaway, in Queen Charlotte’s Wood, between Frodsham and Helsby Hills.

The cabin, which is used for trips and celebrations, was opened by Vernon on 18^th June 1994. As a warden, he spent around one week of every month there since it was founded and before retiring as a Scout leader.

Vernon’s nephew Peter Henry said: “If you couldn’t get hold of Vernon you always knew you would find him there.”

Now a resident at Aaron Court Care Home, on Princes Road, in Ellesmere Port, Vernon was taken to the awards ceremony by staff and family.

Wearing his old Scout Leader cap, scarf and woggle, he said: “Seeing people I volunteered alongside brought back memories. I had an enjoyable day.”

He was invited by Beaver leader Phil Sparkes, who met Vernon at a St George’s Day Scout Service at St Mary’s of The Angel Church, in Hooten, earlier this year.

Phil said: “Vernon transformed the 3rd Frodsham Sea Scouts and I have fond memories of him being a leader.”

Lindsey Bevan, home manager at Aaron Court Care Home, said: “Vernon was delighted to receive an invitation to the Mersey Weaver Scout Awards.

“It is fantastic that he’s been able to reconnect with something he spent most of his life doing and rekindle his passion as a Scout leader.

“A big thank you to Phil Sparkes for inviting Vernon as well as everyone else at Mersey Weaver Scout Group for making it such a fantastic day for him.”