George Bathgate, a 95 year old from Midlothian, passed away after 80 years of service to the Scouts. Receiving an award at Windsor Castle.
George grew up in Loanhead, where he worked in mines. Later, he worked at Roslin Pit. His son, David, called him a Loanhead “stalwart,” emphasizing that scouting defined him.
George retired from the Scouts and then received the Medal of Merit from the Chief Scout at Windsor Castle. This award recognized his significant service.
George joined the Scouts as a boy in the early 1940s, becoming a member of the 19th Midlothian troop. In 1946, he became a Senior Scout, a section designed for 15 to 18-year-olds.
Later, George joined the Rover Scouts, a group for those over 18. In the late 1950s or early 1960s, he became a Scout Leader, according to his son David.
George enjoyed the Scouts because he loved the closeness and thrived outdoors. He particularly enjoyed taking Scouts camping and hiking.
David described his dad as friendly and outgoing, noting that George valued the close relationships he had with others. He also remembered his own Scouting days, noting that badge collecting was not his dad’s focus, as George preferred outdoor activities above all.
George improved the Scout program in the ’70s by organizing trips to London. David said these trips were special because young people at that time rarely left their home towns.
David remembered the London trips fondly, highlighting how London felt far away and vibrant in the ’70s. During the trips, they saw Buckingham Palace, visited the Tower of London, and even went to the Houses of Parliament.
In 1976, George arranged a special tour through a friend in Parliament. They saw parts of the building not open to the public, something people talked about for years, underscoring to George that Scouts meant experiencing things.
Scouts helped George later in life, particularly in coping with the tragic loss of his wife at age 55 due to cancer. George was 57 at the time.
The Scouts helped him through this difficult period, alongside the support from his family, his active involvement in his church, and his close ties in Midlothian and Edinburgh.
David became a Scout leader in 1987, which made George very proud. David notes that there are fewer members now, but he still believes Scouts are important.
David believes Scouts united people and gave young people purpose, something he feels kids today lack. He thinks they have fewer chances to connect and enjoy themselves.
David remembers his dad’s kindness, generosity, and gentleness. After George’s death, many people sent kind messages honoring friendships from Scouting, recalling unforgettable memories.
George joined the Scouts around 1944 and was involved for a total of 80 years. This marks a lifetime of service and represents significant achievement.
George is survived by his children, David and Mary, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.