A GRANDFATHER from Unsworth has been presented with an award for his loyalty to the scouting movement.

Peter North has been a scout leader based at All Saints Primary School in Whitefield for more than 30 years and was given the ‘silver acorn’ accolade in a ceremony at Bury Town Hall.

He thanked his wife Maureen and family members for spurring him on and urged others to follow in his footsteps.

“I was very surprised when I found out I was getting this award and I hope to keep on going as long as I can now,” said Mr North, of Chadderton Drive.

He added: “I’m hopeful that my grandchildren will stay involved with the scouts.

“We’re always on the lookout for volunteers so if anyone wants to find out more, they can get in touch.”

Mr North became a scout leader when his three sons, John, Stephen and Andrew, became beavers in the 1970s.

Today, his 12-year-old grandson Jack is a scout and his 13-year-old granddaughter Shannon is a girl guide.

Mr North said: “It’s changed a lot over the years.

“Nowadays, kids do a lot more activities on computers and aren’t into their crafts as much, though they are still very enthusiastic about going out to do orienteering and outdoor activities.”

He added: “The most rewarding part of being a scout leader is seeing the enchanted look on a child’s face when they have done something for the first time — something they perhaps never dreamed they could do — whether it be abseiling or drawing a picture.”

Mr North received his award from the Scout Association’s retiring county commissioner John Wolley.

Mr North’s beavers group, which is open to ages six to eight and is part of the 23rd Prestwich and Whitefield colony — one of five in the area — meets at the school on Mondays at 5.45pm for one hour.

To inquire about child places, or become a volunteer: call Mr North on 0161 766 2677.