The biggest youth organisation in the world reached its 100-year anniversary on August 1 and several Derbyshire venues, including the Bakewell Show, hosted commemorative sunrise ceremonies where hundreds of Scouts reaffirmed their Promise.

Derbyshire Times reporter Jennifer Ivers took a look back at the Scouts' history and spoke to youngsters and leaders about their adventures...


Leaders of Derbyshire's Scout movement say the youth organisation is more popular and relevant today than ever.

Divisions across the county are struggling to keep up with the demand from youngsters wanting to join the movement, which is split into four age bands – Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.

The movement has strong links with the county, as founder Robert-Baden Powell married Wingerworth girl Olave St Clair Soames.

She went on to become Britain's Chief Guide and the couple's link to the town is marked by the naming of Baden Powell road in Chesterfield.

Dronfield District has 440 members and is having to turn away would-be Scouts, while Chesterfield has maintained a solid membership of just under 1,000 youngsters.

Andy Brewster, District Commissioner of the Peak District division, said: "We started this year with 230 members and have had to open two new Beaver colonies and an Explorer unit in Hathersage because of the huge demand to join us."

Martin Platts, District Commissioner of Chesterfield Scouts, explained why the movement continues to be such a hit. He said: "They get up to all sorts, from outdoor activities like mountaineering to projects using computers and technology.

"The system has stayed the same, but the badges and awards – and what they have to do to gain them – have modernised and been updated."
The values of Scouting, however, which include respect, honesty, and courage – encapsulated by the law and promise – have remained constant throughout the 100-year history.

Alan Carr, District Commissioner of Dronfield Scouts, said: "The Scouts produce young people who are self-reliant and able to find a constructive place in society."