Scout honourS
A NOD FROM THE QUEEN FOR SCOUTING ROLE MODEL Dot celebrates recognition in the Queen’s Birthday Honours
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local scouting stalwart has been awarded The British Empire Medal in the 2020 Queen’s birthday honours. Newcastle District Scouting Secretary Mrs Dorothy (Dot) Bailey was nominated for the accolade by both her employer and Newcastle District Commissioner Vera Bloor for over 30 years of dedication to the Scouts in Staffordshire.
Dot’s scouting CV is impressive, having organised events, camps, gang shows and trips, as well as providing unwavering support to youngsters and dedicating much of her time to developing and creating a successful and fun environment for scouts to enjoy. Newcastle District Commissioner Vera Bloor told Newcastle Life magazine why
Dot was put forward. She explained: "Dot is an integral part of our district and has continued to work tirelessly at both Group and District Level, in a variety of roles, for the benefit of the young people within the Association. This, is in addition to her responsibilities as a county training advisor, has shown her to be a shining light in our district, and a role model to many. Dot’s commitment, passion and enthusiasm to the District and Scouting as a whole is unquestionable." Dot was thrilled to be named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. She commented: “Well, what can I say bemused, humbled, proud and honoured were a few of the things I felt. When I realised that someone from where I work had taken the time and effort to write a citation I was overwhelmed. I feel I'm just an ordinary Scout Leader doing something I love. I suppose the most appropriate adjective is overwhelming!” Pictured is Dot with Bear Grylls in 2018 at Windsor Castle when she received a Silver Acorn award from the Scout Association.
DOT’S SCOUTING ACHIEVEMENTS
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rom 2007 to 2013 Dot volunteered as Director and Co-Producer of her Group scout show ‘Flying High.’ The performance became the first Group Show to receive national recognition and the show became bigger and more ambitious every year. From 2008 to 2014 she was also the co-producer of the highly regarded District Show ‘Castle Capers,’ where her expertise also allowed the experience of the young people involved to be positive and enjoyable, until she hung up her ‘red necker’ in 2014. (The Red neckerchief is worn by those part of scout shows who have been awarded National Gang show status). 12 Newcastle Life Issue 27
