Holyrood Notes - A privilege to attende awards evening

I recently had the privilege of attending the 1st Carnoustie Scout Group AGM and awards evening.

This particular group was formed in 1910, just three years after the Brownsea Island camp at which their founder first experimented with what would become the Scouting method. The group has been in existence continually since and currently have a record number of over 120 youngsters enjoying Scouting in Carnoustie on a weekly basis.

Their AGM is an event which holds a special place in my diary given it was my first official engagement as the MSP for Angus South after being elected in 2011.

Throughout the pandemic the Scout Group continued their passions through a lockdown tent challenge and the virtual Not Skye camp. However, after a three-year Covid-caused hiatus it was great to see the Beach Hall packed again to celebrate the achievements of the Squirrels, Cubs and Scouts.

It was also though nice to hear praise for the volunteer helpers without whose involvement organisations like these simply could not provide the activities enjoyed by young people across our communities.

The act of volunteering is found in all cultures, languages, and religions. Each year, hundreds of millions of people volunteer their time and skills to help make the world a better place. When they volunteer, they help to improve the lives of others.

And as we gradually return to something resembling “normality” post the Pandemic its important, I think, to recognise the role volunteers play in our society.

A raft of fantastic organisations the length and breadth of Angus, catering for the very young through to our much older citizens, are entirely dependent on the willingness of volunteers to give of their time.

Without their selfless dedication it would be impossible for the wider population to enjoy many of the activities they do. And I am honoured to have the opportunity to visit many of them in my day to day job.

So, a big thank you to each and every one of the volunteers who give up their time to support the community.