This is dedicated to the memory of James Wilkinson Earls who died peacefully in his sleep on the night of Tuesday 14th March after a long fight against Alzheimer's.

Many of you will know him as Jim, Jimmy, or maybe even as Akela.

He was born in Northern Ireland on 26th May, 1933. After graduating from Queen's University, Belfast, he moved to Chester in 1954 to work for Shell at the Thornton Research Centre.

His fiancée, Margaret, followed soon after and they were married in 1956.

Shell transferred him to Shell Mex House in 1964 so he moved to Wokingham where he quickly got involved in the local Cubs and Scouts.  He was part of the team of volunteers who set up the 1st Emmbrook Scout Group and he became the 1st Emmbrook Cub Scout Leader - "Akela" - soon running 2 Cub Packs.

Demand for places was high but as usual there was a shortage of Leaders. Later he became Assistant District Commissioner for the Cubs - eventually taking on the position of District Commissioner for Wokingham.

He was also heavily involved with Bracknell Swimming Club - as part of the Water Polo team and as Chairman. He oversaw the transition from Broad Lane to the Bracknell Sports Centre.

Following a long life dedicated to his beloved wife Margaret, his family and an unerring commitment to public service, Alzheimer's struck in 2011.

The funeral will be held at St Pauls Church, Reading Rd, Wokingham on Monday 17th April at 1.30pm.

The live-streaming link is:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60WT6j8K-ZY

It you have memories of him you would like to share, please leave a tribute below. You can also donate to our two charities, The Alzheimer's Society and The Hilary Earls Training and Research Charity at the Royal Berks.