Scout leader 'inspired thousands' in 60-year service

Jennifer Turner "found her lifelong passion" after joining the scouts in May 1966

Tributes have been paid to an "exceptional" scout leader who "inspired generations of young people and adults alike" over almost six decades.

Jennifer Turner died on Friday afternoon at Blackburn Hospital, surrounded by friends and loved ones, East Lancashire Scouts said.

The 77-year-old "found her lifelong passion" after joining the scouts in May 1966 at the age of 18.

She went on to serve as a cub section leader, district scouter for cubs and assistant county commissioner for cubs, and led celebrations marking 100 years of cub scouts in 2016.

She served as district commissioner from 1997 to 2008, guiding and supporting volunteers across the area "with her trademark patience, insight and care", the Scouts said.

And for more than 14 years she guided young leaders, helping hundreds of teenagers across Hyndburn "take their first steps into leadership and personal growth".

Remembered for her kindness

In 2017, she was awarded the Silver Wolf, the highest award for adult volunteers in UK Scouting.

She also contributed to the training of thousands of volunteers in life-saving skills and helped build a centre for scouts in Switzerland.

Beyond scouting, Ms Turner devoted 30 years of service as a special constable for Lancashire Police and volunteered for the MS Society UK and Blackburn Cathedral.

East Lancashire Scouts said: "Jennifer will be remembered for her kindness, her practical wisdom, her humorous wit, and her deep sense of duty.

"She led with compassion, mentored with patience, and brought joy and calm wherever she went.

"Her influence can be seen in the countless volunteers and young people she guided, and in the enduring strength of the communities she helped build."