Former scout to attend St George's Day service in Weymouth

Peter Poyser, 89, is a member of the Holy Trinity Church in Weymouth and Rev Juliet Stephenson has invited him to lead the procession of colours at this Sunday’s parade service from the church at 3pm. 

He is one of the last ever boys to have received the King’s Scout award from our previous King. In July 1951, Peter aged 16, travelled to Hampton Court Palace to be given the accolade by King George VI.

Peter Poyser, 16, and his King's Scout award (Image: Peter Poyser)

The King’s Scout Award is the top achievement for senior scouts (before they become adult leaders), today that is Explorer Scouts or Scout Network members who have not reached 25 Years of Age and comprises a variety of activities to complete.

Now, seventy-three years later, he will be putting his original scout shirt on once again to give a speech to Explorer scouts with many of them working towards their own King’s Scout badge. 

Rev Juliet Stephenson said: " I have got to know Mr Poyser very well.  Peter is a well respected and much loved member of our congregation. He is full of joy, warmth and the friendliest man you could wish to meet.

It came as no surprise to me, that he had been a boy scout, especially knowing his attitudes to life. He seeks to help, encourage and support in any way he can - and most importantly, sees his life as a 'gift'.

"I very much hope that the next cohort of King's Scouts, are as keen to help throughout their lives as Peter. And how wonderful it will be, for him to meet the first 'new' King's Scout in Weymouth when undoubtedly this occurs.

Peter Posyer's letter invitation for King's Scout Award presentation in 1951 (Image: Peter Poyser)

Darren Phillips, the district commissioner of Weymouth & Portland Scouts, is also expected to say a few words as he applauds Mr Poyser for his lifelong commitment to the scouting family. 

He added: “It will be great to hear from Peter how his scouting experience and achievements have helped him through his life, to inspire some of today’s young members in Weymouth & Portland.

"St Georges Day is a time when we all get together in Scouting to renew our Promises. Scouting in Weymouth & Portland is successful and growing with around 500 young members and a large waiting list of young people who want to join us.

"We have a great team of over 100 adult leaders and volunteers but are always grateful to hear from adults who want to come and volunteer, especially those who may have been members of the organisation when they were youngsters, so we can extend the opportunities scouting brings to more local young people.”