William received a Medal of Merit in 1984 during his role as District Commissioner. He subsequently served the district with distinction for a further 11 years in that role, leading by example and inspiration. One of the key challenges that William faced was the possible closure of Groups in the east end of the district in Cambuslang. Tellingly, William grasped the nettle once he stepped down from the DC role and he became a driving force in saving the 150th Group from closure. He took over as group contact, recruited two parents and set up a Beaver colony. Soon after a Cub pack was re-established. It is testament to this exemplary action of a decade ago that there is now a thriving group there with three full sections and a strong leadership team. William knew that the alternative was not acceptable.
William also took on the role of District Nights Away adviser and carries out that function with good humour, firm management and a determination that camping standards for all the Groups in the district will be of the highest quality and that all leaders are encouraged to take the young people camping.
William is a quietly effective person on district executive. His previous experience serves him well and he is well respected throughout the District. William often takes on additional tasks easing the pressure on others.
For the past five years, William has been chairperson of Glasgow Scout Shop Committee. Again he leads from the front and is more than a Chairperson. He’s a walking talking advert for the shop. William can be found every two years at the Blair Atholl international Jamborette working in the shop alongside the staff and other volunteers. His enthusiasm rubs off on others and the standing of the shop and the willingness of staff to adapt to changing markets, demands and methods of sale are in large measure due to his drive.
William has kept his links with the 113th Glasgow Scout Group across the years and, along with his wife, forms the cook team each year at both the Beaver sleepover and the Cub camp. He is also a member of the Group’s centenary sub committee, taking a lead in promotion and community issues and events on behalf of the Group. William is also involving all the young members in designing a badge for the centenary demonstrating his strength of engaging with today’s youth members as easily as with adults on a district executive.
An award for outstanding, consistent and devoted service to Scouting in Glasgow over a period of more than thirty years would be fitting tribute to William, and would reflect the deep respect in which he is held.
The Silver Acorn is a Scouting award for adults, and has been awarded since 1933. It is awarded by the Chief Scout in recognition of specially distinguished service to Scouting and is seldom awarded for less than 20 years service.
Back to Civic reception main page.
Find out more about our centenary celebrations.