TRIBUTES have been made to a Knutsford Scouting legend who was a committed leader ‘right to the last’.

Bill Wilson, President of Knutsford District Scouts, died on Friday, July 9 aged 82.

He leaves behind sons Ian and Alan and joins his wife Shirley who was also well known for her support within Scouting.

Martin Relton, Knutsford Scouts District Commissioner, said: “Bill has served as our District President for 10 years and remained actively involved in Scouting right to the last. With over 40 years of service to Scouting he was deeply involved in the early days of establishing 5th Knutsford as a Scout leader for Panthers troop.

“He was well known for his abundance of Scouting skills which he was always happy to pass on to others. Bill has given many years within Fellowship and Active Support and could always be found supporting District events and camps or representing us at county events.”

“In 1980s he served as an assistant District Commissioner and more recently on the appointments advisory committee. Amongst many other things he also took part on stage in many of the earlier Gang Shows, was a proud member of the infamous 'Wrinkly Patrol' and keen fundraiser for the minibus.”

For his service to Scouting in Knutsford, Bill was awarded the Medal of Merit in 1985 and the Silver Acorn in 2001.

In 2012 for his continued good service to Scouting he was presented with the Bar to the Silver Acorn.

Bill’s service will be held at Vale Royal crematorium on Sturlach Lane in Davenham on Friday, July 22 at 11.30am, followed by a gathering at Hartford Hall Hotel on School Lane, Hartford.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family,” added Martin. “He will be missed.”