THE voice of Lord Baden-Powell echoed around Canterbury Cathedral during a service to celebrate the centenary of the Scouting movement.

It may have been a crackling recording of the movement’s founding father, but it added to the atmosphere of what many attending from across Kent described as the best-ever event of its kind.

The Founder’s Day Service specifically celebrated the work of Scout leaders throughout the county who give up so much of their free time to help young people.

It was attended by numerous dignitaries, including the High Sheriff of Kent, Amanda Cottrell, the vice-chairman of Kent County Council, David Ralls, and the Scouting County Commissioner for Kent, Kelvin Holford.

All 24 Scouting groups from throughout the county were represented, with an estimated 750 people attending the service, which was addressed by the Dean of Canterbury Cathedral.

The service was organised by Canterbury District Commissioner Paul Dimmock, who said: "Many of those attending found it quite emotional. Some said it was the best Scouting event they had ever attended which was very satisfying for us.

"I think it is only right to celebrate the fantastic voluntary work of leaders for young people in their own time. But this event is the first of many being planned in Kent for the Scouting movement’s centenary year."