1st Ditton Scout Group

When Robert Baden-Powell founded the Scout Association in the beginning of the 20th Century, it is unlikely that he will have foreseen the tremendous impact it would have upon the Ditton community.

The first Ditton Scout Group was founded in 1929 by Reverend Wedgewood. It was not until 1956, however, that the current site between New Road and the old recreation ground was acquired by the Scouts. This site is still in use today and now houses a purpose-built, sturdy scout hut.

The 1st Ditton Scout Group currently consists of two Beaver colonies, two Cub packs, and two Scout troops. River Beavers meet on Mondays, Tiger Cubs take over on Tuesday, and the Lion Cubs take command on Wednesdays. On Thursday evenings both the Woodland Beavers and the Otter Scouts use the hut, and finally, on Fridays, the Beaver Troop Scouts assemble.

The assortment of weekly events that take place in the Scout Hut vary greatly, allowing for a huge range of different activities. For example, one week there may be a Knots and Lashings session, whereas the week after there might be a hike, or a swimming session at Larkfield Leisure Centre. Indeed, the Scouts is perhaps the best social venue for young children anywhere in the community.

But don’t just take my word for it. Speaking to Grace, a Woodland Beaver, I was told (very confidently) that “it’s fun and most of my friends are here.” An Otter Scout, Robbie, told me that the best things they do at Scouts were “the games and the camping.”

The Cheeky Monkey Challenge, which the Group organised last year, was a weekend which included camping, activities and fundraising, designed to raise money for the charity, Children with Leukaemia. Grabbing the bull by the horns, the Ditton Scout Group not only subjected themselves to 26 different fundraising activities, but also raised a staggering £1151.10 for leukaemia sufferers.

Though not a camping sort of person myself, I did get the feeling that going on camp with the Scouts was a very good idea indeed. In fact, most of the things they do are interesting, fun and (remarkably) fairly educational.

All in all, I can heartily recommend the Beavers, Cubs or Scouts to anyone between the ages of 6 and 15. Not only is it fun, but it’s also a brilliant community to be involved in and, who knows, you might make some new friends!

Ditton Scouts are always on the lookout for new members, as well as new Leaders and Assistant Leaders to help support the group. Training can be provided if you have the enthusiasm and commitment, and have a willingness to help support the Scout community.

By James Waters