The Future's Bright for the 63rd Scouts!

As the 63rd Bristol Scout group approaches its centenary year, having been started in 1913, the future looks good. The numbers of boys and girls in Beavers, Cubs Scouts and Explorer Scouts is now over 200, the only limiting factor to further expansion is space and adult volunteers. The well loved scout hut in Williamson Road is reaching the end of its life and needs replacing. The hut is also the home of Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. It is used every night of the week by some 350 young people aged 5 to 17.

Over many years the group has looked to replace the existing building. This has moved closer to reality over the past few years with a long term lease for the land available and an active group of supporters who have been working hard. They now have planning permission, an estimated cost of just under £400,000 and plenty of positive support. The project received a welcome boost when developer Persimmon Homes handed over a cheque for £64,000 originally earmarked for a youth centre that will no longer be built. This means that they now have about £100,000 towards the total cost of the project. The cheque was handed over at a fund raising launch on Saturday September 29th; this included a BBQ and bar. The event was well supported by parents, children and the community at large; there was a mood of celebration and expectation that they were on the verge of finally realising the dream. They plan to hold various social fund raising events; the young people themselves will be involved in raising funds with sponsored events. They will also be approaching various charities and others to ask for support and launching in the New Year a centenary hut appeal.

Scouting and Guiding is growing and the group want a building that can meet the needs of the young people. During the day and on some weekends the building will be available for community use. The current building is already home to a fitness club and a drama group. Many local families also use it for children’s birthday parties.

They are always looking for extra adult help; this can range from just a one off couple of hours to a weekly commitment. They have just recently recruited two new Scout leaders; this has had a positive impact on the Wednesday scout troop which numbers some 40 boys and girls. If you would like to find out more with no commitment please contact Mike Evans on 0117 9553750 (day times are best) or e mail mikeevans3@virginmedia.com.

If you want to help with the new hut development please visit the website at www.hut6388.org, or contact Mike as above. Cheques should be made payable to 63rd Bristol Scout Group and can be posted to The Scout Hut, St Bartholomew’s Road, Bristol BS7 9BQ.