Graham Dix, a leader serving with 1st Midsomer Norton Beaver Scout Colony, received a surprise presentation during the Beavers’ Christmas party recently.

Unbeknown to the young people present, he had completed fifty years’ service as an adult volunteer in Scouting, mainly in Paulton and Midsomer Norton, and was presented with the County Commissioner’s Award for Excellence, and a celebratory cake.

The certificate read: “For going above and far beyond what is expected of a Scouting volunteer. With fifty years of adult service, Graham has attended every District cub camp and Jamboree and continues to enjoy providing scouting to our young people.”

It was presented by Tina Curtis, Wansdyke District Commissioner, on behalf of the county.

Mr Dix said: “I have enjoyed every minute of Scouting; working at different times with all ages in the movement. It has become part of my life, and I hope to continue volunteering for a long time to come.”