Presentation of Bar to the Award for Merit to Karen Imrie

Karen Imrie has given service to Scouting at Group, District, Area and Regional level over a period of nearly 20 years. In July, she was presented with the Bar to the Award for Merit amongst friends and family at the Blair Atholl Patrol Jamborette.

Her first love in Scouting has always been working with the Cub Scout section and for many years she worked hard as part of a leadership team to ensure that all of her Cubs were given the opportunity to enjoy a balanced programme and gain badges and helped to lead themed programme evenings and take the Pack to camp bi-annually.

In 2003, she took on the challenging role of Local Training Manager, working hard to persuade Group Scout Leaders and new leaders of the benefits and value of completing their wood badge.

In 2006, Karen took on the role of Blair Atholl Coordinator for Gt. Glasgow Area. Having been associated with Blair Atholl for many years Karen new only too well the benefits and enjoyment that young people would get from being part of a Blair Atholl Patrol. For many years, the Area had struggled to fill its quota and it's a credit to Karen that in recent years, the number of young people applying for selection has increased.

In 2003 and 2009, Karen joined the staff of Auchengillan International Jamboree in the role of Assistant Director of PR & Media helping with the massive amount of pre-camp administration, coordinating home hospitality for Groups and greeting international Groups as they arrived in Glasgow.

Most recently, Karen was Chairman of Eastwood District Appointments Committee, driving forward the implementation of the now current appointments process in the District and ensuring that new adults felt welcome.

We offer our congratulations to Karen on her well-deserved award.

Do you know of leaders in your Group or District who regularly give good service to Scouting which has not been recognised? If so, please contact your District Commissioner or get in touch with me in the Regional Office.