Scouts and Scout Leaders from 11 Districts which make up The Scout County of Greater London North East celebrated the third annual Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement and Leadership awards on Wednesday 27th October at the Sir James Hawkey Hall in Woodford. The event, worth £44,000, brought together 156 Scouts and 13 Leaders.

Scouts and Leaders from Ilford East and Ilford North West Divisions received a medallion to go with their framed certificate and cheque for £200 for their Group. Leadership Awards were also presented and these are achieved for demonstrating, in an outstanding way, an ability to encourage and motivate young people. Winners received a gilt medallion, framed certificate and a cheque for £1,000 to be spent on their District. Prize money has mostly been spent on extra resources and equipment.

The Jack Petchey Foundation, founded in 1999 and based in Ilford, aims to help develop the potential within young people aged 11-25 in East London and West Essex. The Foundation is eager to help these youngsters take advantage of opportunities and to play their part in society. So far £10 million has been given to a wide range of organisations.

"I know how hard it can be for young people to develop their potential" said Jack Petchey OBE who helped present the awards. "The Foundation is pleased to support the Scouts and this event celebrated all those young people who have successfully won awards, earned through their own efforts, commitment and citizenship and Leaders who are considered great mentors" he added.

Jack Brown from Hainault, aged 14, is a member of 1st Ilford East Scout Group and was recently appointed Senior Patrol Leader (Bosun). Jack gives strong support and is proactive in organising the other Patrol Leaders putting in extra effort when co-ordinating arrangements for events and activities. Jack spent his award money on hiking rucksacks, lightweight camping equipment and cookers.

Philip Wray from Barkingside is a member of Ilford North West District and has been a Leader for 40 years. In that time Philip has inspired and motivated many hundreds of young people. During the last twelve months he has been the driving force in re-opening a Scout Group. In addition to organising events for his Group, Philip also organises high profile events for the District and County and holds the appointment of County Special Needs Adviser.

Dean Milton County Commissioner G.L.N.E. said "I am extremely proud of the Scouts here tonight who have demonstrated at such a young age that they are responsible young citizens who care about their community. We've heard many examples of Scouts involved in community projects from helping the young and old to improving the environment. By working in partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation, we can continue to work with and encourage young people to set themselves goals that will make such a positive contribution to our society."

Incorporated as a charity by Royal Charter in 1912, The Scout Association in the United Kingdom is firmly committed to co-education so that boys and girls can develop together and meet the aims of Scouting through one programme. Today, there are over half a million adults and young people enjoying the fun and friendship of Scouting in the UK. For further details about scouting in your area contact Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818 or email: info.centre@scout.org.uk or go to www.glne-scouts.org.uk

The Foundation is inviting more youth organisations to get in touch. For further details go to the website www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk

PRESS INFORMATION FROM CHRISTINE BAKER, CHRISTEN PROMOTIONS: 07768 120249

Further details about Scouts awards and case studies available from Malcolm Wetherell County Co-ordinator 020 8478 7363

Photos | Malcolm Wetherell: County Co-ordinator for the Jack Petchey Award Scheme