It is a very great pleasure to be involved with an organisation as successful as West Sussex Scouts. Among the remarkable number of excellent charitable organisations in the County, the Scouts are one of the biggest and best and we can be proud of that. This situation has not come about by accident but through the dedication and effort of our splendid volunteer Leaders and Staff who give so much time not only to keep the show on the road but also to train, re-train, adapt and generally move with the times, in order to ensure that we are providing the service that both parents and young people want. The strong evidence that we are achieving this comes from the fact that the numbers joining the movement continue to rise.

 

Earlier this year Tony Wilkins completed a most successful five-year tour of duty as our County Commissioner. Ably supported by his wife Hilary, he coped with this demanding assignment with remarkable energy and enthusiasm. No stone was left unturned in his determination to broaden and improve what Scouting in West Sussex has to offer. We are most grateful to him for all that he achieved for us. While I feel sure that he will want to continue his involvement with Scouting, I trust he will be able to settle down to a less hectic schedule!

 

In conclusion, I would like to thank our volunteer Leaders at all levels for your efforts and achievements over the past year and to wish you success and satisfaction from your involvement in the future. Under the leadership of our new County Commissioner, Malcolm White, I am confident that West Sussex Scouts will continue to flourish. And finally, to all those who read this report, I trust you will do all you can to spread the good news about Scouting in West Sussex.

 

Brian Barttelot