In my time I have had the privilege to speak at events with large audiences but size doesn’t always matter they say. I had a tough gig ahead of me.

It was a great pleasure to be invited to talk to the 1st Wickhambrook Beavers this week. They wanted to know all about democracy as a result of it being UK Parliament Week.

Otter (Jo Gearing) Beaver Scout Leader does a brilliant job encouraging and enriching the lives of these young people. Having said I would talk to them it did dawn on me that this subject was about as difficult as it gets with an audience aged 6-8yo. Trying to pitch it at a level that they would understand and keep them interested was always going to be a challenge. The feed back from a couple of mums there was positive.

Jo did warn me that they would be challenging and ask lots of questions. She was not wrong. Having explained there are 22 members of the Governments Cabinet one youngster asked how many of the 22 were on the naughty side. What could I say given recent events!!!!

I was very impressed with the politeness and respect the young people showed. I love the idea of putting an arm in the air which brought silence, eventually.

A great organisation, well run and of great benefit to the youngsters. The catchment area is far and wide so if you have little one who might be interested contact Jo on beavers@wickhambrookscouts.org.uk

Jo took the picture and cleared it with parents before I blogged it.