Scouts from Nottinghamshire branded heroes by local community
and charity Age Concern

Following a desperate plea from the Carlton-based charity Age Concern, who were deeply concerned about the well-being of people unable to attend their day centre, the Scouts came to the rescue providing food parcels and a friendly face to those trapped in by the snow. 

Two Scouts, Amy Box and Robert Wright, whose school was closed because it had not received a delivery of grit, were only too happy to lend a helping hand. 

Robert 16, from Pepperpots Explorer Scouts said "It's been great doing something worthwhile during the time that school has been closed. As well as all the adventurous activities we also learn about the important role we play in our local communities. It's good to know that people will be better off because of our actions."

Age Concern gave the Scouts a list of the people it was most concerned about and they were the first to receive a visit.

Tracy Pearson from Carlton Age Concern said "It's the people who don't have any relatives nearby, and people whose transport was unable to pick them up, that we are most concerned about. So we asked the Scouts if there was anything they could do. We are so grateful to the Scouts for helping and caring in this way. It is truly inspirational." 

After shopping for the food the Scouts packed bags full of essential items and walked down icy roads to deliver the all important packages.

Amy Box 15, from Notts said "We've been giving out necessities really, like milk, bread, fruit, soup and toilet rolls. Meeting all of the elderly people has been nice and knowing that you're helping makes you feel good inside."

One of the people visited by the Scouts was pensioner Julia Diduszyckys, from Netherfield, "I was so pleased to see the Scouts, their delivery has been a lifeline to me. I am scared to leave the house, everywhere is just so icy and I don't want to break anymore bones. The Scouts are real-life heroes."

Deputy CC Matt Rooney said "It has been an absolute pleasure to support Age Concern in this way. Its a great example of Scouts 'doing their best' and 'helping other people'. This is just one example of the many good things Scouting does in our local communities."

UK Chief Scout and TV survival expert, Bear Grylls said "By volunteering, adults are actively make a difference to people's lives in their community, and there is no better way to be part of an adventure and have loads of fun, than with the Scouts."

NESST have also had a team of volunteer Scout Leaders who have been delivering hot meals to elderly people, winching cars from ditches and delivering sleeping bags and blankets to schools and emergency rest centres.