Hosted at 1st Crowborough, home for Jim during many of his scouting years, the district leadership and invited guests saluted Jim Ringe, our retiring District commissioner at a lunch on 7th January 2007.

David Willcocks surprised many (including me) by presenting a viking ship silver woggle to Jim that he had hand crafted himself. Along with the fantastic cake and food it was a great occasion without masses of boring speeches. Waffle was contained by Sheila Ringe who not only acted as MC but arranged the whole event.

the reception was attended by over 100 people and there was a queue of others that would like to have been there.

Jim and Stew Lomax - former scout and now ADC activities

County commissioner Ray Tennant warmed us all with the praise not only for Jim but also for the great success of Ashdown District.

Jim was very impressed that so many people had so many nice things to say about him considering that he was not universally popular when he took on the role nine years ago. He told us that the DC job is often remote and seen to be the most difficult but he has been particularly glad of the friends that he has come to know as DC.

We will not be saying goodbye to Jim since he will be taking over as district secretary in the new year. Jim will also be keeping in touch with Ticehurst too as he wants to take an active part in our leader training.

New DC Brian Sadd has already set the pace for the year with the change in district team and development of new innovations such as the district website.