AFTER 17 years with Crediton Cub Scout Pack, Ray Conabeer is standing down as Akela.

Ray, who lives in Crediton and works at Graphic Plc, was assistant leader for 16 years, Leader for the past year. He began by helping Dee Elston, then Jan Melbourne, Fay Lewis and, lastly, Dawn Tonkin, who still helps.

Cubs, Scouts and Beavers return early in September with changed meeting days. Cubs start again on Tuesday, September 8, Scouts will meet on Wednesdays and Beavers on Thursdays.

More helpers would be welcome, even sweeping the floor or making drinks releases someone else from this job. "Someone who can share activities with the young people, help with craft work, sharing skills and knowledge, even if not every week would spread the work. The more helpers, the less there is for everyone to do," said Dawn Tonkin.

Anyone wishing to know more either to help or enrol a child should contact 01363 773058, for Cubs 01363 774870, or for Scouts 01363 773057.

Although he has retired as Leader, Ray has joined the 1st Crediton Scout Group Executive Committee who gave him an inscribed glass plate in acknowledgement of his contribution to Scouting.

Wayne Reed, who has been helping with the Cubs and who will be with the Scouts in the autumn, presented badges and Cubs Cameron Burt and Jack Reed went up to Scouts.