On Saturday 7th October 2023, the Standard Bearers Competition took place at Thornbury Barracks in Pudsey.

3 Standard Bearers competed, all from within the Leeds Group of the County.

• Simon Scott - Horsforth Branch
• Jeff Gantschuk - Guiseley Branch
• Stuart McHenery - Wetherby & District Branch

Each Standard Bearer had very detailed inspections on their uniforms, followed by the same level of inspection for each move they made with the standard. Not just while standing in one position, but whilst marching with the standrad too.

County Parade Marshal John Huck, put the Standard bearers' through their paces under the watchful eye of 2 RBL Judges Scott Pringle and Rod Eglin.

After each individual had been put through their paces and could breath a sigh of relief, the adjudicators Sharon Turton (MEO) and Tina Pringle (CPAM) totted up the scores.

Waiting for the results. L to R: Simon Scott, Jeff Gantschuk & Stuart McHenery

The results were:

1. Jeff Gantschuk - Guiseley Branch
2. Simon Scott - Horsforth Branch
3. Stuart McHenery - Wetherby & District Branch

In this situation, there are no losers, they all performed incredibly well under pressure. For Stuart and Simon, this was their first competition. Well done to everyone who took part and thank you to those who attended to show their support.

Jeff Gantschuk will be sworn in as County Standard Bearer for the third year running at the County Conference in January 2024. 

Jeff Gantschuk being presented with the Shield by Parade Marshal, John Huck.

From L to R for each picture: Parade Marshal - John Huck, Standard Bearer Judge - Scott Pringle, Simon Scott, Jeff Gantschuk, Stuart McHenery and Standard Bearer Judge - Rod Eglin.