Volunteer Awards 2026
North Yorkshire Scouts came together for a truly inspiring evening, celebrating the phenomenal volunteers who make Scouting shine so brightly across our county.
For North Hambleton, it was an honour to stand shoulder to shoulder with our fellow districts and applaud the remarkable individuals who pour their time, passion, and heart into giving young people unforgettable opportunities. The citations awarded tonight don’t just list achievements — they capture the countless hours, the selfless dedication, and the unwavering commitment these volunteers give to Scouting. Their impact is woven into every campfire, every meeting, every moment of growth our young people experience.
We are bursting with pride for our North Hambleton award recipients:
🏆 Unsung Hero – Community Champion: Hana Crisp – Bedale- after nearly 15 years as Treasurer of Bedale Scout Group, is a pillar of reliability whose steady, meticulous financial leadership has quietly powered the Group’s transformation, stability, and long‑term success.
🏆 Unsung Hero – Leadership: Nicki Heaton – Bedale- is an outstanding inclusive leader who reshapes programmes, listens deeply to her team, and ensures every Cub feels fully involved and able to thrive.
🏆 Unsung Hero – Team Player: Graham Sandel – Bedale – is the troop’s rock of dependable support, consistently showing up, stepping in, and keeping Scouting running smoothly for Bedale’s young people across more than two decades of service.
🏅 Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service: Ben Russell – Romanby- Benjamin Russell, Group Lead Volunteer at Romanby Scouts, is a standout team‑builder who leads by example, drives growth, and keeps the group running smoothly through his proactive, dedicated leadership.
🏅 Chief Scout’s Award for Merit: Ben Lambert – Great Ayton- a highly valued volunteer at Great Ayton Scouts, is an inspiring mentor whose passion, integrity, and tireless commitment empower volunteers and ensure every young person feels included and encouraged.
🌟 Silver Acorn: Paula Spence – Appleton and Welbury- is a hugely committed volunteer whose energy, creativity, and leadership have transformed Appleton Welbury Scouts, delivering exciting programmes, top‑award achievements, and an extraordinary level of service to her rural community.
🌟 Bar to the Silver Acorn: Mark Turner – DLV North Hambleton – is a collaborative leader whose ability to build, mentor, and empower strong teams continues to shape the success and spirit of Scouting across North Hambleton.
Each of these volunteers represents the very best of Scouting — steadfast, generous, and driven by a genuine desire to help young people thrive. Their contributions don’t just support our movement; they elevate it.
To all our volunteers, whether recognised tonight or not: thank you. You are the heartbeat of North Hambleton. Your dedication lights the way for our young people, and we are endlessly grateful for everything you do.