A new partnership of Bear Grylls, the tenth Chief Scout and Wayne Bulpitt, our first UK Chief Commissioner is in place to lead Scouting in the UK

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Scouting in the UK is more popular than ever, having gone through its fourth year of consecutive growth.

Together Bear and Wayne will help to continue building on Scouting’s success story by supporting those already involved in Scouting and encouraging more adults to volunteer their time.

While Bear will focus on providing inspirational leadership and increasing Scouting’s national profile, Wayne will manage and lead all volunteers within the movement.

Good friends and adventure

When asked why he chose to volunteer for the UK’s largest mixed youth movement, Bear said: ‘In short, because I love adventure and I love hanging out with good friends. For me this is what Scouting is about.’

He first got involved in Scouting aged eight as a Cub Scout. Bear attributes this time as part of the inspiration behind his adult adventures presenting TV shows such as Born Survivor: ‘So much of who we are as an adult is formed when we are kids,’ said Bear. ‘What Scouting says to young people is: “it’s okay to go for it in life”.’

Born on 7 June 1974, Bear Grylls will be the youngest ever Chief Scout.

The famous adventurer takes over when current Chief Scout, former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan, completes his five year tenure in July.

Exciting times

Like Bear , Wayne Bulpitt’s Scouting began as a Cub Scout. ‘I am delighted to have been invited to take on this new role at such an exciting time,’ said Wayne.

‘The successes of the last few years mean that we are well placed to make the most of a high public profile and fulfil our vision of providing personal development and exciting opportunities to increasing numbers of young people.’

Wayne will also help to further external relationships with political parties, Scouting ambassadors and related organisations.