A local scout leader has been presented with the the most prestigious service award within the association.

Janet Turner was given the Silver Wolf award by district lead volunteer Graham Bush during the annual carol service of the first Radstock Scout Group.

The award recognises Janet’s adult leadership within scouting spanning nearly fifty years. It is the unrestricted gift of chief scout Dwayne Fields and is only awarded for service of a most exceptional nature.

Janet's main role is currently that of a lead volunteer, formerly group scout leader, of first Radstock Scout Group. She, along with her husband Dave, built up what was a struggling group to a vibrant and welcoming group over the term of her stewardship in the last 18 years.

Lead volunteers act as a manager, supporting other volunteers to ensure the group or district runs effectively and provides quality Scouting to more young people in the surrounding area.

During that time the group’s numbers increased and is now thriving and vibrant with more than 80 young people and more than 20 leaders, with beavers, cubs, scouts and explorer scouts operating out of its headquarters. This has been brought about by Janet’s enthusiasm and commitment.

Having completed 10 years as district commissioner, Janet turned her attention solely to first Radstock group and immediately continued its development.

With pure hard work and commitment she canvassed around and began to make an impression on the local area. This has progressed, despite Covid, for a year-on-year increase in young people to where we are today.

As well as running the scout group, Janet is heavily involved in scouting at district level. She is joint chair of the appointments panel, welcoming and giving guidance to adult taking on new roles.

She inaugurated the Wansdyke district scout jamboree ‘WanJam’, and has been on the organising committee ever since. She was instrumental in planning this year’s event which led to more than 700 members of the district enjoying an activity-filled weekend in June.

District lead volunteer Stuart Ballard said: “I have known Janet for more than 40 years and she has never failed to give of her best to scouting and her beloved Radstock group.

“It would be impossible to count the young people that have benefitted from Janet's care and time, and I know there will be big cheer from all involved in scouting in the area as this Silver Wolf is awarded.”