Scouting around- Sharon visits the local Explorer unit (Sharon Bowles MEP)

Sharon Bowles MEP <info@sharonbowles.org.uk>

Scouting around- Sharon visits the local Explorer unit

October 3, 2008 3:05 PM

Sharon discusses expedition plans with two Explorers, Calum (left) and Neil (right). Sharon, last night, visited the Misbourne Explorer Unit to see a showcase of their work and activities as part of the Unit's Annual Open Evening.

Sharon said:

"This was a fantastic evening; I was very impressed by the Misbourne Explorers. Their work covers everything from walking expeditions, to volunteering for the local Red Cross.

"One of the boys, Matthew Harrison, was presented with the Queen's Scout Award which is the highest award available in scouting. This requires hard work and dedication so I was privileged to be present. There were a number of other boys and girls who had earned this award highlighting the success of this unit."

The visit followed a campaign in the European Parliament to make 2011 the Year of the Volunteer. The Written Declaration, signed by Sharon, has been successful in securing over half of the Parliament's 785 MEPs, and will now be debated in the chamber.

Commenting Sharon said:

"Volunteering is immensely beneficial to volunteer and recipient alike. It aids personal development and helps break down social and cultural tensions so I am delighted that this Written Declaration has been successful in Parliament.

"It is estimated that over 100 million Europeans of all ages and backgrounds volunteer with approximately 5% of national GDP being attributed to the voluntary sector. This indicates how widespread and influential this sector is across Europe.

"Volunteering is helping to build a more democratic Europe so I hope that this campaign is successful to make 2011 the Year of the Volunteer."

Sharon added:

"The Misbourne Unit is currently homeless so if anyone has any suitable building for the Unit to carry out their great work, please contact my office! There are also more boys and girls wanting to join the unit than available leaders, so if anyone is keen to become a leader please contact the unit."