A Purley scoutmaster was given a surprise in This is Your Life-style when he was invited to be guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Coulsdon Manor.
Derek Hands was instead presented with a top Rotary award for an outstanding 50 years of involvement in the Scout movement.
He was appointed assistant Scout leader with the 4th Purley Scout Group in 1958, and since then has held countless positions including the title of Scout leader since 1988.
A Rotary spokesman said: "His devoted and lengthy service has been recognised by the wold of Scouting with many awards over the years for outstanding service.
"The success and high standards of 4th Purley (1st Coulsdon) are largely due to Derek's enthusiasm, dedication and leadership over a long period.
"Many generations of young people in the area have case to be grateful to Derek and his team for the leadership skills and the enjoyment that they received through scouting in the 4th Purley."
December 13, 2001 14:30
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