It is with great sadness the 88th Craigalmond Scout Group announced the passing of Helen Liddle, one of the longest-serving Leaders in the former Haymarket District, on Tuesday the 23rd of January.
The 88th Haymarket was formed by Helen’s father, John Liddle, back in 1937 and our Scout Hall in Carrick Knowe is named after him. Helen joined the Group in 1965 as Assistant Cub Scout Leader and over the years held many different roles – Cub Leader, Scout Leader & Group Scout Leader. In 1980 Helen was awarded the Medal of Merit, followed by the Bar to the Medal of Merit in 1991, and she was humbled to receive her Silver Acorn Award in 2007.
After 42 years of service to the 88th Haymarket, and helping create many memories over many decades for so many young people, Helen stepped down from her formal Scouting commitments in 2007 to enjoy her well-earned retirement, but she still remained a very keen supporter of the Group – even though she wasn’t around on a weekly basis, she was still in touch with what was happening, and kept her finger well and truly on the Group pulse! The last conversation I personally had with Helen was at the end of October, where she said how delighted she was with the magnificent job being done by the current Leader team to maintain the success of the Group.
Helen will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her; everyone at the 88th, and her former Haymarket colleagues, are all thinking of Helen’s friends and family at this time.
There will be a service of remembrance held on Tuesday the 12th February at Carrick Knowe Church at 12.00. As Helen gave so much of her life to Scouting, it would be a great way to honour Helen if as many Scouters from as many Groups as possible – especially those who knew Helen from the Haymarket days – could attend the service in full uniform or wearing a necker. After the service refreshments will be served in the church hall. This will be a great opportunity for everyone who knew Helen to share their many memories.
Archie Johnston
Group Scout Leader, 88th Craigalmond Scout Group
