Gary Allwood recently took on the role as Assistant County Commissioner for Scouts. In this role, Gary leads support to the Scout Section and is a member of our Programme Support Team, who together help our Section Teams to deliver incredible programmes to our young people.

We asked Gary a few questions to help you get to know him.

Gary how are you feeling about being the new Assistant county commissioner for Scouts?

Excited about the challenge and the opportunity to support Scout volunteers and young people across Merseyside.  

What motivated you taking on the role?

I really enjoyed working with the Assistant District Commissioners for Scouts over recent years and I wanted to continue this and build on the fantastic work to date in supporting our members.

Tell our members a bit about yourself?

I am Dad to Henry (Cub) and husband to Laura (ABSL). Professionally I am an Ecologist. I joined Cubs in 1989 at 1st Lydiate (then 5th Sefton East), progressing through the sections before taking on an Assistant Scout Leader role in 1999. I took charge as Scout Leader in 2006, and Assistant District Commissioner for Scouts for Altside in 2016. I enjoy running and triathlon, recently completing an ironman.

What have been your highlights as a member yourself?

Receiving my Queens Scout Award and attending the Windsor parade was a fantastic experience. Especially as the parade was on the Queen’s birthday, herself and Prince Philip inspected the parade which was extra special.  Recently seeing my own scouts progress to receiving their Queens Scout Award and take on leadership roles gives me an immense sense of pride. My own son received his Chief Scout Bronze award recently which was a very proud moment.

You’re stuck on desert island. What 3 things do you take with you?

A sharp axe, sharpening stone, steel striker. 

Last album you listened to?

Jamie Webster – We get by.

Favourite Movie?

Tough one – it’s between Shawshank Redemption and Back to the Future.

If you could choose any meal, what would it be?

Corned beef hash and baked beans… on camp.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance at winning medal for?

Bad singing!

Do you have a claim to fame?

I once made a poster of all the UK Chief Scout’s to sell as a fundraiser, the rumour is that Bear Grylls has a copy of it in his toilet!

Ever met a famous person?

The Duke of Edinburgh, HRH Prince Philip.

If you could dinner with a famous person, who would it be?

Jurgen Klopp