A scout leader who has helped hundreds of youngsters during almost 25 years of volunteering has retired.

David Hewitt, 44, has been a leader of Coggeshall Scouts for almost a quarter of a century and has travelled the world as part of his volunteering.

He became a scout leader at the age of 20, after having been a member of both the Coggeshall cubs and scouts group himself.

It is a tradition which very much runs in the family, with Mr Hewitt’s parents having been scout and brownie leaders, and his two sons Alex, 17, and Marcus, 14, being scout and cub leaders.

His daughter Megan, 9, is also a member of the Coggeshall brownies.

Mr Hewitt, of Hitcham Road, Coggeshall, said: “Hopefully there will always be a Hewitt in the Coggeshall scouts.

“I have had a fantastic time and I would recommend it to everybody, it puts life in perspective and ensures you have a good work and life balance.

His role as group scout leader is yet to be filled and other volunteers are also need to help out.

Anyone who is interested in taking part is asked to call 01376 563162.