Tribute has been paid to legendary Scouting figure Ann Wells who has passed away at the age of 91.
Ann, from Margate, gave more than 70 years of service to scouting and dedicated her entire life to the wellbeing of children.
She had been a leader for 1st Margate (St John’s) Scouts since she was 18 and was also President of Thanet Scouts & St Johns Ambulance Southern Division.
A party and long service award for the mother-of-four was held in 2022 and attended by Scout and Guide members, county officials, MP Sir Roger Gale, former Margate council leader Iris Johnston and former members of Ann’s scout group, with many travelling from across the country to be at the event.
The grandmother and great-grandmother was also a St John Ambulance president. She was a lunchtime supervisor for many years at Drapers Mills Primary School and a governor at Drapers Mills and later at Salmestone Primary.
Whilst at Salmestone she used her considerable persuasion skills to help with Christmas hampers for some of the families who deserved a little extra support and for many years she enabled youngsters from all walks of life to attend summer camps, finding the funding for them if necessary.
In later years, when she had less mobility, she began creating Hope teddies. The teddies were donated by Keel Toys (owned by one of her former scouts) and she created blanket coverings for each one with Hope written on the back.
Daughter Lesley said: “The Hope teddies were distributed to dementia wards, Demelza, GPs, dentists, anyone who had suffered a loss or been ill. She did thousands. Even when she could not get out she still wanted to give and have an impact on people’s lives.
“Even at 91, she still had a half finished teddy at home.”
Ann was made an MBE in the late 1990s for her services to Thanet children with the wellbeing of young people at the heart of all she did.
Lesley said: “She was quite a strict mum but she was always really proud of all of us and all we achieved and the grandchildren as well.
“She looked after my children when they were little and I went back to work and was always actively involved with the family. She was a big part of ensuring we all grew up with principles and morals.
“She never gave up and was still living at home independently, with just a bit of help. She was incredible.
“We will miss her so much, there is now an Ann shaped hole in our lives.”
District Lead Volunteer for Thanet, Cath Kirkpatrick said: “Ann Wells MBE, known as ‘Akela’ by many, dedicated 73 years of her life to Scouting. She started as a Cub Scout Leader at the 1st Margate Scout Group, working alongside her husband Bill, who served as the Group Scout Leader. Her unwavering commitment to the 1st Margate Scout Group continued throughout her Scouting.
“Ann became well-known for organising the group’s annual summer camps—first in Hoath and later in Herne—which became a highlight for members. Managing the logistics for over 100 children and adult volunteers each year was a significant achievement she took pride in.
“These camps often attracted other groups who wanted to experience camping in large groups and prepare for their own adventures. Ann’s campfire singalongs were legendary for their fun and enthusiasm, frequently inviting dignitaries to join and demonstrate the spirit of Scouting.
“In addition to her dedication at the group level, Ann served as District Cub Scouter from 1973, then became Assistant District Commissioner for Cubs in Thanet beginning in 1990. In the early 2000s, she acted as District Manager, supporting Scout groups throughout Thanet, and since 2004, she has held the role of President of Thanet Scouts.
“Her service was recognised in 1995 when she received the Silver Wolf for her exceptional service, the Scout Association’s highest award. She has the prestigious UK honour of MBE for her outstanding services to the community.
“Through her leadership, Ann inspired, mentored, and helped thousands of young people learn vital skills for life and to become responsible citizens. Her remarkable commitment has touched countless lives both in Thanet and across the country, leaving a lasting legacy. Ann Wells MBE will be greatly missed by the Scouting community.”
Veteran MP Sir Roger Gale said: “When I arrived in Thanet in 1983 Ann and her splendid husband Bill had already embarked upon years of dedication to Scouting in Thanet.
“Ann was one of the most determined, dedicated, committed and honest people that it is has been my privilege to have called my friend. She was fearless and impressive in her ability to recruit, to her cause, members of the Royal Family, Speakers and Members of the House of Commons, Bishops and ‘local dignitaries’ in support of the young people in whom she so passionately believed.
“When God created Ann Wells he broke the mould: she was a unique and very special person whose legacy will live on in the lives of so many people with whom she has worked.”
Dane Valley councillor Jack Packman said: “Ann gave years of unwavering dedication to her community and to Scouting, changing the lives of hundreds of young people along the way. Through her kindness, leadership, and tireless commitment, she opened doors, built confidence, and gave so many the very best opportunities in life.
“Her legacy lives on in every young person she inspired and every community she strengthened. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
Ann will be greatly missed by her 4 children, 8 grandchildren and their partners and her 3 great granddaughters as well as the wider Thanet and Scouting community.
