Huge congratulations to Skip for being awarded a Volunteers Award at “Spirit of the Borough” Civic Awards 2026
Described as being ‘the spirit of the borough’, it was a night to celebrate the people of Royal Greenwich at this year’s Civic Awards at Woolwich Town Hall on Friday 6th March.
The 2026 Awards saw 47 awards and small gifts presented on the night to neighbours, carers, leaders, to teachers, young people and sports achievers.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, who helped present the awards, said: “Our residents truly are the spirit of this borough. I was proud to shake the hands of such incredible achievers who go above and beyond to support each other, who lift the spirits of the community and who ask nothing for it.
“This year we saw an incredible 234 nominations representing people from all walks of life, all faiths, all backgrounds. They show what this borough knows and understands so well: compassion and kindness is universal.
Alex’s commitment to Scouting spans almost six decades and has had a profound impact on generations of young people in the local community. He joined the 10th Royal Eltham Scout Group (XRE) Wolf Cub Pack in 1966 and, in 1976, became an Assistant Cub Scout Leader, beginning a lifetime of service. In 2011, Alex took on the role of Group Scout Leader at XRE, a position he continues to hold with dedication, energy and care.
Founded in 1938, XRE has a proud history of community service, and under Alex’s leadership it has gone from strength to strength. Today it is a thriving, burgeoning group offering an
outstanding programme across all sections: Squirrel Drey, Beaver Colony, Cubs, Scouts, and the affiliated Severndroog Explorer Scout Unit. Demand is so high that the waiting list is fit to burst – a true testament to the quality, inclusivity and excitement of the opportunities on offer.
Alex is also hands-on, supporting weekly Beaver sessions and ensuring the youngest members feel welcomed and inspired. We are incredibly lucky to have a leader whose passion, experience and commitment continue to shape such a successful and supportive Scouting community.
His contribution is remarkable not only for its longevity, but for its continued ambition and energy. Group camps are always bursting with activity, and the programme he delivers with his
brilliant team of leaders is rich, varied and adventurous. Alex never rests on his laurels; even now, he is planning an expedition for 2027 to Vässarö, a trip that will see young people canoe,
sail, trek in the mountains and form friendships with scouts from across Scandinavia. Alex’s sustained commitment, vision and hands-on leadership exemplify the best of Scouting. Skills for life for the lucky young people who get to be part of XRE year in year out.
