Cheers, Badges & Big Smiles: North Hambleton Scouts Celebrate Success!
Young people from across the district came together to celebrate their achievements at the North Hambleton Scouts Awards, which was an uplifting afternoon recognising resilience, leadership and the positive impact they make in their communities.
The event was held at East Harlsey Village Hall, the event welcomed 30 young people, along with their families and volunteers, as the district’s first awards celebration since 2019, it was a brilliant moment to reconnect, reflect and celebrate everything our young people have achieved.
Photo Credit: ©DMC Images
We were pleased to welcome Rishi Sunak (Member of Parliament for Richmond and Northallerton), who met with young people and their families ahead of the ceremony, he was also joined by Jo Ropner (Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire and Honorary County President of North Yorkshire Scouts).
District Lead Volunteer Mark Turner and County Lead Volunteer Max Butler were also in attendance, alongside volunteers from across North Hambleton, a great show of the strength, teamwork and dedication at the heart of our district.
Throughout the afternoon, we shone a spotlight on the determination and spirit shown by young people over the past year, from learning new skills and stepping up as leaders, to supporting their local communities and taking part in adventures, the awards demonstrated the full range of opportunities Scouting offers.
Among the top awards presented were:
These honours represent sustained effort and personal challenge which spent often months, or even years, of commitment, teamwork and stepping outside comfort zones.
The ceremony included interviews and performances that captured the variety of experiences Scouting provides. Young people spoke proudly about volunteering, outdoor adventures and even international opportunities that help build confidence and broaden horizons.
A strong theme throughout the afternoon was community impact, North Hambleton District Scouts continue to work closely with local partners to make sure young people can contribute in meaningful ways.
A great example is our partnership with the Wombles of Hambleton, who work with Scouts on environmental and community projects, these activities support badge work while helping young people see the real difference they can make where they live.
Through projects like these, young people develop practical skills, environmental awareness and a sense of responsibility, values that sit right at the heart of Scouting.
Speaking after the event, Rishi Sunak said:
It was a real privilege to be part of such a positive and uplifting afternoon. The confidence, enthusiasm and community spirit shown by these young people was outstanding, and it’s clear how much Scouting helps them grow in character. Events like this are a real credit to the leaders, volunteers and families who make it all possible.
Mark Turner (District Lead Volunteer for North Hambleton Scouts), added:
These young people have shown determination and a willingness to challenge themselves. Seeing these awards presented today is a testament not only to their hard work, but to our volunteers and everyone who has supported them on their journeys. We’re incredibly proud of every single recipient and those who supported them.
Leaders throughout the event highlighted how Scouting helps young people build resilience, teamwork and leadership, while giving them a strong sense of belonging. By trying new things, taking responsibility and supporting each other, they are developing skills for life.
North Hambleton District Scouts continues to grow, offering opportunities for young people and volunteers from Bedale to Stokesley and Great Ayton to Masham, with increasing membership and a dedicated volunteer team, the district is thriving and expanding.
Looking ahead, events like the North Hambleton Scouts Awards remind us of the incredible impact Scouting has, not only on individual young people, but on whole communities across the district.
To find out more or get involved as a volunteer, visit: www.northhambletonscouts.org.uk/join.
From left to right: Philip Roberts, Max Butler and Mark Turner