Scout Leader Jonathan Charmley has become the first Scout in the Bailiwick to receive the Cornwell Scout Badge, which is one of the Scout Associations rarest awards. It is awarded to those under 25 years of age who have demonstrated great heroism or pre-eminently high character and devotion to duty coupled with great courage and endurance.

Jonathan has been involved with Scouting since he was a Cub and has close affiliation with the Bailiwick’s 4th Air Scouts, where he attended Cubs and Scouts, before taking on a Leadership Role. On moving to Reading University to read archaeology in 2019, Jonathan also joined the 73rd Reading (Park) Scout Group and became Reading’s Youth Commissioner.

Sadly it was shortly afterwards that Jonathan was diagnosed with a brain tumour, which severely affected his vision and turned his life upside down. Putting his study and plans aside Jonathan had various specialist treatments in both Guernsey and the UK.  Admitting that his treatment and recovery had been tough, Jonathan said that the one thing that remained constant was being able to help out at Scouts. He praised the Leaders at the 4th who made adjustments for him and thanked the Scouts for their understanding and treating him normally, depite the fact he can't get involved with the more enthusiastic ball games.

Jonathan was presented with the Cornwell Badge at Rue Mainguy on 31 March 2023 in front of the 4th Scouts, Leaders and Parents together with four current and former Bailiwick Commissioners all of which were involved in his nomination, and the following month Jonathan and his parents attended the Scouts’ National Day of Celebration & Recognition at Windsor Castle where he was invited to meet Bear and other senior members of the Scout Leadership Team at a special reception.

Later in the year Jonathan will join other local volunteers at an adult awards evening where he’ll receive his certificate. Jonathan has made a successful return to Reading University and is still volunteering at Scouts in both Guernsey and Berkshire.