On Saturday 8th June, the picturesque gardens of The Archbishop’s Palace within Southwell Minster came alive with celebration as Nottinghamshire Scouts held their Thank You Garden Party. The event honoured volunteers awarded the Chief Scout Commendation or Award for Merit in 2024. Each recipient was invited to bring a guest to enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea in the sunshine.
Hosted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering, the event welcomed 125 guests, including special attendees Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Alex Peace-Gadsby, High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire Ed Attenborough, and the Dean of Southwell, Rev Dr Neil Evans. The glorious weather added to the joyful atmosphere.
County Lead Volunteer Jordan Phillips opened the event by saying, “You give your time, your skills and your care, not for applause and not for awards, but because you believe in the power of Scouts to change young people's lives for the better".
The smooth running of the day was supported by 15 Explorer Scouts from Raptors (Newark District), BEST (Mansfield District), and Fortis Explorers (Central Notts District), who helped professionally throughout the day.
In her closing speech, Lord-Lieutenant Veronica Pickering said, “The Scouts is helping young people with skills for life at such a crucial point in their development, and the earlier we can support people in sections like Squirrels, the better society we have. Thank you to the awardees and supporters for everything you do to help young people in Nottinghamshire”
The event was a heartfelt thank you to those making a difference in young lives. Don’t miss out—get your Chief Scout Commendation or Award for Merit nominations in early for a chance to attend the 2026 celebrations!