THE UK’s new Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields, has sent a heart-warming, personalised message to Burnham-on-Sea’s Scout Group.

Dwayne, an adventurer and TV presenter, was appointed the 11th Chief Scout in early September. It’s a role which will see him provide leadership to half a million young people and adult volunteers. Born in Jamaica, Dwayne came to the UK when he was 6 years old. He grew up in North East London, with little access to nature and joined the Scouts to access to the outdoors, new friendships, and open new horizons.

In his personalised message, Dwayne said: “A vital part of my mission is to encourage our Scouts and volunteers to build their skills and find their future, and I’m really looking forward to meeting Scouts in Burnham and the surrounding area. I’d like to say thank you and well done for all our Scouts do to support their local community.”

He added: “The team in and around Burnham are creating brighter tomorrows for a new generation. Scouts gives thousands of young people a place to belong and find their place in the world. We give them the skills to succeed and belief in themselves. Scouts gave me belief in myself as a child, when I needed it most, and I want others to get the same chance I did.”

The 1st Burnham-on-Sea Scout Group is based on Stodden Road, where those from the ages of 4 to 25 can develop skills for life. Scouts can work towards achieving the prestigious Chief Scout Award.

Dwayne Fields added: “I’m so incredibly proud that Scouts in and around Burnham will be earning their Chief Scout’s Awards, and I hope I’ll be able present some of these personally. Young people never cease to amaze me with their energy and generosity – we can learn so much from them.”

“Well done to every Scout and volunteer in Burnham and the surrounding area. You’re champions of our community.”