Chief scout Dwayne Fields gives praise to Hexham scouts

He was chosen for the role due to his values, commitment to helping young people, and leadership qualities.

Mr Fields will lead Scouting's half a million young people and adult volunteers.

He aims to inspire more young people and volunteers from all backgrounds to join.

Mr Fields said: "It’s such a great honour to take on the role of chief scout.

"A vital part of my mission is to encourage our Scouts and volunteers to build their skills and find their future, and I’m really looking forward to meeting Scouts in Hexham.

"I’d like to say thank you and well done for all our Scouts do to support their local community.

"The team in Hexham are creating brighter tomorrows for a new generation.

"Scouts gives thousands of young people a place to belong and find their place in the world.

"We give them the skills to succeed and belief in themselves.

"Scouts gave me belief in myself as a child when I needed it most, and I want others to get the same chance I did."

Mr Fields believes that 'Scouts is for all,' and wants volunteers and scouts from every background to 'experience the freedom of the outdoors' alongside the 'friendship'  that is offered.

He said: "I want us to reach across our communities like Hexham and welcome in as many young people as we can.

"I’m so incredibly proud that Scouts in Hexham will be earning their Chief Scout’s Awards, and I hope I’ll be able present some of these personally.

"Young people never cease to amaze me with their energy and generosity – we can learn so much from them."

The chief scout says that we must 'never forget' that Scouts is 'powered by volunteers'.

Mr Fields said: "We can only offer these great opportunities if we have enough adult volunteers to deliver them.

"As a volunteer myself, I know that it can be as much fun for us as it is for the young people.

"We make friends and learn new skills along the way.

"So well done to every Scout and volunteer in Hexham.

"You’re champions of our community."