A HEREFORD man who has been a scout leader since 1966 has been made an MBE in the New Year's Honours.

David Owen, 73, has run scout groups in Herefordshire, Shropshire and further afield over the 50-year period, but still has no plans to hang up his woggle.

The former Barclays manager has run several international trips, which he says helps ingrain the Scouts' ethos into young people.

But he has now been recognised in the New Year's Honours List services to scouting.

Mr Owen, who lives in Lugg View Close in Hereford with his wife Pam, says the ethos, which includes respecting and caring for others, has had great benefit to his three sons.

He is currently acting group Scout leader in Tupsley, and also chair of the South Marches District Scout Council, which he says "looks after and assists with all the Scout groups, the 17 Scout groups, around north Herefordshire.

One of the most special things for Mr Owen is seeing former Scouts around Hereford.

"I have to say I was in shock for days as I can't believe there's not people more deserving than myself," Mr Owen, known as Skip, said.

"I was in total shock, very honoured to have received the award.

"The one thing that has been a mantra for myself and my wife is that we accept all children are brilliant, and it doesn't matter what their age is or if they've got disabilities.

"The one thing we need to do as adults is help them achieve their full potential, and that's what we try to do in the Scout movement.

"We try and make sure there are children who achieve their full potential, and there's children even at the age of six or seven who can do things much better than me.

"I am dreadful at art, but some of the artwork from the children is much superior to what I can do."

Since 1990, he has also been involved with the Hereford Gang Show, a variety show put on at The Courtyard every other year.

Outside of the Scouts, Mr Owen worked for Barclays and is vice-president adn life member of the Herefordshire Junior Football League.