Diocesan News
Tributes as Ballymacash Parishioner Retires as District Scout Commissioner
Tributes have been paid to Noel Irwin, parishioner and newly appointed People’s Warden at St Mark’s, Ballymacash, who has retired after 11 years as District Commissioner of Lisburn and District Scouts.
Incoming District Commissioner Audrey Morrow pictured presenting a retirement gift to outgoing District Commissioner Noel Irwin in recognition of his service to scouting in the Lisburn area. Looking on is Billy Mawhinney (District President). Photo: John Kelly.
During the St George’s Day service in Harmony Hill Presbyterian Church, Billy Mawhinney, District President, said Noel joined 1st Ballymacash as a cub scout.
He was a scout with 1st Derriaghy and later 64th Belfast scout troop before joining the Venture Scouts in Lisburn and gaining his Queen’s Scout Badge.
In 1983 Noel became an assistant Beaver Leader and two years later became Ballymacash Cub Scout Leader. At just 21, he organised his first cub camp when he took the pack to Portumna, County Galway. As well as running his own cub pack, he was Assistant District Commissioner, Public Relations (2002 to 2005).
In 2000 Noel was awarded the Chief Scout’s Commendation for his services to scouting and in 2005 he was appointed District Commissioner. In 2006 he was awarded the Medal of Merit and in 2014 the Silver Acorn.
Billy said: “During his 11 year tenure as District Commissioner, Noel was a gifted team leader and had the great ability to convince leaders to extend their scouting activities and become an ADC and help running the District. Under Noel’s leadership the District has grown and there are now over 1,100 boys, girls and leaders in the District.
“To all scout leaders, Noel was not just the boss, he was a friend who was always there for help, guidance and assistance.”
After Billy’s tribute, Audrey Morrow, incoming District Commissioner, presented Noel with a gift in recognition of his exemplary service to scouting in the Lisburn area. Audrey, District Explorer Scout Commissioner (DESC) and Assistant Scout Leader (ASL) with 1st Derriaghy, takes over from Noel at the end of June.
For further information contact Karen Bushby, Connor Diocesan Communications Officer, on 028 9082 8874 or 07766 103880 or email [email protected]
For further information please contact:
Connor Diocesan Communications Officer
Contact Details
Karen Bushby
028 4066 0798
07766103880
[email protected]