As the New Year dawns so does the newest district within Cheshire, Mersey Weaver. Formed by the amalgamation of North West Cheshire and Widnes Districts we will now be one of the largest districts within the county. Thanks have to go to all who have worked on the amalgamation over the last months, change is not always easy, but I have been thankful for all who have made such a positive contribution to the new district’s launch.

Grateful thanks go to all who are stepping down from District Executive and District Leadership roles, your contribution to scouting over a number of year has been considerable. Thanks also to Val Thomason, the outgoing DC of Widnes and John Frodsham who was DC of North West until May 2011. Not only have you made a tremendous contribution to the development of the districts your support to myself over the last months has been equally tremendous. I am pleased that you will be around to support the early development of Mersey Weaver.

Having thanked those standing down thanks have to go to all who are taking on the Executive and District Roles in the New District. There will be many familiar faces whose knowledge and expertise will be essential in the coming months.

While much has been done to implement the new district there is still much to do and a few posts to fill. As I have said from the beginning the most important element is the young people and in respect of this the Groups and Explorer Units will in effect see little change. Both districts have, and continue, to supply high quality and active programmes for the young people and this continues to attract more and more people to the movement.

We have a full District Activity Calendar which I hope will be well supported by the groups as this will provide for greater challenges and the opportunity to meet with new colleagues. The Cheshire Challenge is also an opportunity to meet and work with new people.

This is an exciting opportunity to further enhance the scouting opportunities we offer young people and to further grow the movement locally. We have the added benefit in terms of the support and recognition we receive from the local councils, we make a positive difference to our communities and I am confident that Mersey Weaver will become one of the leading districts within the county.

We are always looking for new volunteers to work with our young people and this website has links to allow you to register interest. We need adults to act as leaders and also in the support roles such as treasurers, secretaries, fund raisers. We provide a full training programme so previous experience is not essential. Not only is this a good way to support your community it is good fun and a great way to make new friends. Don’t be shy give us a try!

May I wish you a Happy New Year, I look forward to working with you in 2012.

John Duley
District Commissioner
Mersey Weaver District