WEXFORD SCOUTS SWAP CAMPING FOR CATWALK
MEMBERS OF the 13th Wexford Clonard Scout Group swapped camping for the catwalk recently when they held a fashion show fundraiser in aid of their new scout hall.
A huge crowd came to watch the local models strut their stuff and in true scouting spirit, everyone got involved. Many of the Cubs, Beavers, Scouts and Ventures took to the catwalk on the night, while even the leaders and some brave parents had their time to shine on the night.
‘I walked the catwalk. It was my second time doing it so I am a veteran now!’ said Assistant Cub Leader Tony Dolan. ‘It was a good bit of craic.’
‘All of the kids really enjoyed getting involved.’
Clothes were provided from Wexford retailers including Shaws, Vila, DV8, Benneton, Louaine and Carraig Donn.
The fundraiser proved to be a success as a total of €1,000 was raised. However, this is only a fraction of the estimated €250,000 that the group needs to build the new hall, which according to Tony, they are great need of.
‘We have been holding or meetings in Clonard Community Centre until now but it isn’t the same when it is not your own place. You are in and out the whole time and even for this next two weeks, we can’t go there because Santa will be there. So after all of this time, we are trying to build our own,’ he said.
The land that they plan to build on, which is based behind Clonard Church, was given to the group by Wexford Borough Council in recognition of their service to Clonard and Wexford.
They currently meet every Saturday morning in the Clonard Community Centre, but the construction of a purpose built scouts hall will allow the Group to broaden their range of activities and possibly allow them to increase their membership in the locality.
They are currently actively fundraising for their project and also hope to apply for grants in the near future.
To assist the 13th Wexford Clonard Scout Group in their fundraising efforts, Bricks 4 Kids in Wexford made a presentation of €375 to the group following the fashion show. This was raised during some free fun sessions at Bricks 4 Kids recently, at which the company did not asked for payment but instead, for donations towards their own hall.
The group’s next fundraiser will take place on December 17 when they plan to collect some more funds through carol singing outside AIB Wexford from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. A few special guests are expected on the day to help to warm up the crowd. They are calling on members of the public to offer any support they can on the day.