FOUR trees have been planted in memory of a popular Old Basing Scout leader.

Around 70 youngsters and leaders from Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in the village gathered at the field behind the Scout Hut, in Milkingpen Lane, to plant the saplings in tribute to Ian Collins, who was the group Scout leader for Old Basing.

The 67-year-old died suddenly on August 12, having dedicated much of his life to the Scouting movement.

Three oak trees were planted, one from each group, in memory of popular Mr Collins, who was known as Oak by his Scouting friends.

Sean Barlow, assistant district commissioner for activities in Basingstoke East, said: “Ian was involved in Old Basing Scouting for a long time.

“I remember him telling me that in 1957 he was at the World Scout Jamboree and that was the year I was born! He was respected and very much liked. The guy lived for Scouting.

“He was a really nice guy – the kids liked him and he was very popular. We wanted to do something in his memory.

“Because he was known in the group as Oak we thought oak trees would be the nicest thing to plant because they will be around for a while.”

A rowan tree was also planted, donated by fellow Scout leader Liz Gray.

The Scouting groups are raising funds to replace the Scout Hut and the trees were planted in an area used for camping, to create a divide between the site where the new hut would be built and the field.

Following the planting, the group took part in a traditional sing-song round a campfire, joined by several members of Mr Collins’ family.