Bill and the kids still marching on together after 61 years in Scouting
BILL Ratcliff showed his pride at having been part of the Scouting movement for 61 years when he joined 1,500 Scouts and leaders for a St George's Day parade.
The 69-year-old took part in the annual march through Derby city centre in his role as leader of 166 Mickleover Derby Scouts, a troop which he founded in 1979.
Afterwards, he was presented with a long-service certificate during a service at the Cathedral.
Mr Ratcliff, of Devonshire Drive, has lived in Mickleover all his life and hopes he has made a difference to the youngsters there.
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He said: "I've been a leader for 52 years and I do it for the kids, no other reason. I hope it turns them into better citizens."
But not all of those taking part in the march had such lofty aims.
Eight-year-old Ben Mackervoy said he enjoyed being a Cub Scout because of the games.
He said: "We play dodgeball and tag."
He was encouraged to join the movement by his dad, Roo, leader of the Beavers at 157 St John's, in Allestree.
His son is a member of the same troop and together they took part in the parade, which began by the Market Hall and made its way to the Cathedral.
Mr Mackervoy, of Amber Road, Allestree, said: "I just loved Scouting. I love getting outdoors, the fresh air and the activities."
And the father-and-son pair were not the only ones proving Scouting could be a family affair.
Marcus Roome, 15, his 18-year-old brother, Alex, and their dad, Mark, are all involved with the 166 Mickleover troop.
Marcus, of Whistlestop Close, said he had remained committed to the Scouts since he was a child.
He said: "You get the occasional joke at school but you just brush it off.
"You have to help the younger kids and I get enjoyment from that."
After the parade, services were held in the Cathedral for Derby North Scouts, on Cathedral Green for Derby South Scouts, and at nearby St John's Church for those from Derby East.
Organiser David Capel: "The Cathedral was full, so the rain didn't put them off from taking part.
"I spoke to a little boy from Darley Abbey who was just six years old and he said it was great.
"We work for the children, so their reaction is very important to us."
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