A Suffolk scout leader has spoken of his 'pride' after he was chosen ahead of two other candidates to receive the Community Champion of the Year award at this year's East Suffolk Community Awards.

Barrie Hayter, leader of 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts (5WSS), received the award at a ceremony at Snape Maltings on Tuesday after being nominated by 5WSS executive committee member Janet Perry.

He said: “I am so proud of everything that 5WSS has achieved in the last five years. It is a real team effort so this award is for everyone. You should all be proud of what we do.”

His nomination citation focused on how 5WSS had gone from 'strength to strength' in 2022, thanks to Mr Hayter's 'leadership, motivation, determination and commitment to the scouting movement'.

READ MORE: http://www.eadt.co.uk/news/23292476.suffolk-work-starts-extension-woodbridge-scouts/

In particular, the group has offered a full programme for 160 young people supported by 65 volunteers, organised camps away for cubs, scouts and explorers and launched a Warm Rooms venue for the benefit of the local community.

He had also worked to secure funding for new boats, paddleboards, kayaks and a safety boat, giving group members more opportunity to enjoy activities on the River Deben.

Furthermore, three new 5WSS groups were created during the year to offer 'life changing opportunities' to 50 children and young people, while a new Squirrels group has been created for four-to-six-year-olds.

READ MORE: https://www.eadt.co.uk/local-news/woodbridge-news/

In her nomination, Janet added: "Barrie’s tireless efforts help 5WSS to continue its longstanding role in the Woodbridge community, offering children and young people a safe place in which to thrive, grow and feel connected to their peers.”

She said he was 'integral to the development, operations, safety and sustainability of this popular scouting unit'.

The father-of-two attended the awards with his wife Rachael and fellow scout leaders Noo and Bradley Tooke and expressed his gratitude to those around him.

READ MORE: https://www.eadt.co.uk/news/health/21263622.scouts-hope-open-new-section-meet-increasing-demand/