Did you know these famous faces were Scouts?

The Scout Association is an international brand known around the world for teaching young people skills for life, building friendships and setting them up for the future.

There are a number of recognisable faces from; celebrities to entrepreneurs and even royalty that have once been a member of the Scouts or volunteered with them before they became household names.

How many did you know were involved in Scouts?

David Bowie

The musical icon was a member of The Scouts growing up in Kent and even played his first musical performance at a Scout camp on the Isle of Wight in 1958 with the 18th Bromley Scouts.

He returned to the Isle of Wight to perform throughout April 1965 and then again for his last ever UK performance in 2004.

John Lennon and Paul McCartney

It seems that many famous faces in the music industry joined Scouts before rising to international stardom. The two Beatles supposedly ended up at the same Scout camp together in 1957!

David Beckham

Another famous David who was a Scout growing up, is legendary footballer David Beckham. He followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and joined as a Cub Scout.

Richard Branson

Sir Richard Branson, the entrepreneur known for his Virgin empire, was once a member of the Scouts, and it’s possible that being a part of The Scout Association is where the mogul’s philanthropic side stems from.

He said of his experience, “Scouting was great fun. I learnt a lot and I don’t think I could have done without it.”

Tim Peake

European Space Agency astronaut, Major Tim Peake was appointed Scout Ambassador for The Scout Association in 2017.

He was the first British astronaut to walk outside the International Space Station in January 2016, and also ran the London Marathon from the treadmill onboard the ISS.

Now he has his feet planted firmly back on earth, the former Cub Scout credits being a Scout with preparing him for space.

Last year, he tweeted, “Scouting was the first step on a journey that led me to becoming an astronaut… and more importantly a Lego minifig ;)” – keep aiming for the stars Tim!

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

The Scout Association has had the support of the Royal Family since founder Robert Baden-Powell was awarded the title of Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order for his services to the country by King Edward VII and The Scout Association was incorporated by Royal Charter.

The President of The Scout Association is currently Prince Edward, The Duke of Kent and Her Majesty the Queen is Patron.

More recently, the Duchess of Cambridge volunteered with a Cub Scout pack when her and Prince William were living in Anglesey and often participates in commemorating special occasions with groups around the UK – an interest which comes from her being a Brownie during her childhood.

Find out more about Scout Group websites here