The 1st Cockermouth Scout Group has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) - the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK - in recognition of its outstanding contribution to the community and dedication to supporting young people in West Cumbria.
The award, often described as the MBE for volunteer groups, recognises the exceptional work of the Group’s leaders, instructors, trustees, and other supporters, who together provide life-changing opportunities for young people.
Founded in 1948, 1st Cockermouth Scout Group is one of the largest youth organisations in the area, with over 200 members and 50 adult volunteers giving their time to deliver a wide range of outdoor, skills-based, and community activities, with a strong focus on ‘learning from doing’.
Steve Dawson, Group Scout Leader, said:
“Cockermouth Scouts are hugely grateful and extremely proud to be honoured in this way. The King’s Award is a fabulous recognition of all that our team of leaders, instructors, trustees and helpers commit to our Group, and have done since 1948.”
He added:
“With 200 members and 50 adults involved, our Scout Group is one of the largest youth organisations in the area. With 10,000 volunteer hours in 2024 alone, we are delighted to provide amazing activities that build Skills for Life for those aged 4 to 17.”
The award will be formally presented to the Group early in the New Year by the Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Alexander Scott, on behalf of His Majesty The King.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Alexander Scott, said:
“The 1st Cockermouth Scout Group represents the very best of volunteering in Cumbria - generations of dedicated individuals creating opportunities, confidence, and community spirit for local young people. This award is richly deserved, and a source of great pride for Cockermouth and for the county. I am particularly impressed that the Group has gone the extra mile in developing skills for life in those from all backgrounds, and in strongly promoting an ethos of service to others within the community.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service was created in 2002 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, and continues under the patronage of His Majesty The King. It celebrates outstanding work by volunteer groups that benefit their local communities.