Nearly 400 members of the Scout County of Greater London North East came together last night, for the 43rd County Annual General Meeting - the biggest turn out at a County AGM for years!

As well as concluding the formal business, members were proud to congratulate recipients of the annual St Georges Day Awards, Duke of Edinburgh Awards at Bronze and Silver level and the 'John Moore Trophy' presented to the District which had grown by the highest % at the annual census, which this year went to Hornchurch for their 11% rise in membership!

In his stirring speech, our new County Commissioner Dean Jefferys congratulated members for their hard work over the last year and set everyone a challenge to get more young people off of the waiting lists and into the Scout Halls around the County, thus truly providing "Better Scouting for more Young People"

County Treasurer Andy Holden set a new World Record for the fastest ever presentation of the annual accounts and was rewarded with a 30 year service award, while stalwart member of the executive Barbara Westcott was recognised for her 50 years service to the County, along with Charles Sharpe from Newham.

One new innovation this year was 'The County Pride Awards', which recognised one adult from each District who had done something special over the last year. The recipients came from far and wide and included leaders from all the youth sections, District Chairman, Secretaries and Executive members (so often the unsung heroes of the movement). Colonel Alan Hall, County President had the difficult decision of announcing the overall winner, with the first ever recipient of the 'Alan Lewin Trophy' being James Phillips from East London.

Colonel Hall was also stunned into submission with a surprise Award for Merit, along with Andy Jones, ACC (Activities). Both worthy recipients were suitably surprised to receive their awards.

The evening ended with a humorous and well planned speech and video of the 21st World Scout Jamboree, led by GLNE Contingent Leader Amanda Harrison and four young members of the contingent themselves. In recognition of the amazing work that went into the selection, planning and leadership of our outstanding contingent, the GLNE Team were awarded this year's 'Toronto International Friendship Trophy'.

We look forward to seeing just as big a turnout next year at the 44th AGM!