David Yirrell, 53 has just been appointed to the top job of District Commissioner for Ampthill and Woburn after spending 18 years as a leader at the Toddington Scout Group.

This electronics engineer came to Toddington in 1991 and answered a call for help from his local Scout Group. He has been there ever since. He went on to build up the group’s reputation first as a Scout Leader and then as a Group Scout Leader. He says, “Scouting teaches you self reliance and discipline. It’s also good for building character and fits you for the rigours of the outside world.”

His three children have taken more than a passing interest in Dad’s role as leader of the Scouts in their area and have benefited from the Scouting skills he has taught them. Daughter Alex, 25 soon picked up camping skills, first as a Guider and then as a Scout. As a student she put her skills to good use at a camping event when many in her group were baffled by a frame tent and most needed help lighting a fire.

David’s task now is to provide a framework for the eight groups in his district so they all continue to follow a dynamic programme. He wants to develop the district campsite at Milton Bryan, once a secret wartime base, and to encourage all the village communities to take part in the fun and adventure of Scouting.

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