TRIBUTES have been paid to Mary Castlebury who passed away last Friday (January 8) at the age of 87.
Mary gave more than 40 years to scouting in Bromsgrove and served in a number of roles.
District Commissioner Viv Ware said: “In her own way Mary enjoyed everything in scouting and encouraged others both young and old to challenge themselves and enjoy life.
“She has now ‘gone home’.”
Another person who has fond memories of Mary is local training manager Val Leddington.
She said: “My first memory of Mary was as the organiser of county camp in early 1980s at Eastnor Park as Assistant Count Commissioner Cub Scouts.
“This was my very first camping experience and I learnt so much from it and I certainly know the young people thoroughly enjoyed it.
“She even managed to ensure the weather was brilliant.
“This was one of many, many events Mary with her team organised.
“She was an intimidating lady whose heart and soul was in scouting and with her organisation and very imaginative and creative mind provide hours of fun for so many young people and adults as well.”
Mary Castlebury joined the scouting movement in 1958 with the 1st Bromsgrove Scouts as a cub scout leader and served in that role for 24 years.
During that time, she was a district cub scout leader and became the Assistant District Commissioner of the Cub Scouts in 1981.
In 1973 she became a leader trainer and undertook that role until 1986.
And in 1981, Mary became Assistant County Commissioner of Cub Scouts (Hereford and Worcester).
Husband Lawrence joined her in scouting in 1962 as a scout leader at 1st Bromsgrove Scouts, becoming Group Scout Leader in 1967 until 1992.
Both were involved in building the original Bromsgrove Scouts HQ building on its present site
Mary received a Silver Acorn award for the contribution she made and, throughout her service to scouting and the community, Mary helped many young people.