Northamptonshire scouts to mark St George's Day at home by hanging neckerchiefs in windows

Traditionally scouts across the UK renew their promise on St George’s day as St George is the patron saint of scouting.

This year, there are more scouts in Northamptonshire than ever before.

The last annual census in January recorded 6,677 young people, aged between six years old and 25 years, supported by 2,444 adults - a three per cent increase on last year giving an overall total of 9,121.

With the social distancing restrictions in place, the normal large gathering is not possible and scouts will be marking the day in one of three different ways.

Renewal of the promise:

At some point during the day, people can renew their promise and be assisted by accessing YouTube where our local volunteers have posted a video covering each of the

age-specific promises.

Get your 'necker' out for St George’s day:

The Scout neckerchief or ‘Necker’ is a universal symbol of scouts all over the world. Northamptonshire Scouts will be hanging them in front windows all over the county.

Scouts clap for carers:

This coming Thursday, scouts are encouraged to wear their scout uniform and join in the clap for carers.

Dean Smith, county commissioner and the lead volunteer in Northamptonshire Scouting, said: “These are challenging times, but we wanted to provide an opportunity for all of

our members to do something special on St George’s day, something we can all remember in the years to come.”

While face-to-face scouting was paused in March, scouting has very much continued with leaders running online activities and challenges that can be done at home.

Dean added: “We have some really special leaders, and they have worked tirelessly to help our young people get through this and be ready to get back to scouting as soon

we can. It’s certainly been a time when our creativity and innovation has come to the forefront in very special ways.”