Malcolm Hampton R.I.P.

Malcolm Hampton enjoyed a family Boxing Day gathering, but a few days later sadly had a second stroke and died peacefully on December 31st. With his first stroke occurring 22 years before, in 1986, Malcolm was a fighter and survivor, but great credit goes to his wife Janet who said she bullied her husband to keep him active.

Malcolm's Scouting began in 1937 at the new Varndean Troop, the 20th Brighton North, where he became troop leader; Tony Cutress was in the troop at the time. Enticed back to Scouting in 1964 by Margaret Cutress with the newly formed 31st Brighton at Westdene; he was part of a scouter team that ran an active and successful troop. He was also able to use his surveying skills in drawing up plans for their new HQ. He stayed at the 31st until 1977. One of Malcolm's highlights was being part of the group of leaders on the Dutch Scout exchange, DDQ 76, where he made friendships still strong to this day.

Malcolm had a love affair with Parkwood and served as committee chairman for 20 years. It was a period of change and he used his professional skills in planning building changes. His family joined in working weekends. Although incapacitated in recent years, Malcolm was always cheerful and interested to talk about Brighton Scouting. He and Janet attended the November Dew Drop Inn lunch at Shoreham Airport, and at the January gathering their many friends raised a glass to his memory.

The District was well represented at Malcolm's funeral, paid their respects to him and gave support to Janet and the family.