MAY I make a suggestion that would hopefully take some of the heat out of the debate about the Baden-Powell statue on Poole Quay?

Perhaps the BCP Council should consider moving the statue to another location by the Quay – into Poole Museum. Here it could be the centrepiece of a display, giving the full context. This would, obviously, include Baden-Powell’s achievement in creating the worldwide scout movement.

It could emphasise the local links – the first scout camp on Brownsea Island, his marriage to local woman Olave Soames in St Peter’s Church, Parkstone, and her subsequent position as Chief Guide. But it should also address the more dubious aspects of his life – such as his active participation in acts of colonial violence in Southern Africa at the end of the 19th century, and his subsequent actions ensuring that there was no police involvement when scoutmasters sexually abused children in their care.

There are so many aspects of Baden-Powell’s life – positive and negative – that have contemporary relevance.

Placing the statue in a museum setting, surrounded by photos and text giving background information, could create a valuable educational experience.

ALAN NEALE

Pearce Avenue, Poole