Appeal to replace out-dated scout hut
SCOUT leaders are looking for community support to help replace their rundown headquarters.
The 4th Hinckley Scouts hope to raise enough money to build a brand new club house, with proper heating and an inside loo.
Group chairman KellyAnne Morris has set up a just giving page and is also embarking on a series of fundraising events.
She is hoping local people will get behind the fundraising drive and ensure the group’s youngsters get a base they deserve.
Kelly-Anne said: “The scout hut was for many years, the Hinckley district scout HQ and housed not only 4th Hinckley Scout Group but also the district explorer unit and the Hinckley district scouts shop. While the hut is well-loved and has served the scouting movement in Hinckley well over the past 80 plus years, it is now sadly past its best and no longer fit for purpose.
“It has limited heating so is very cold and damp during the winter months and very hot and stuffy during the warmer months. It also has just one toilet which is outside in a separate brick outhouse with steps which prevents access for wheelchairs so we are limited in offering scouting to those with mobility issues.
“Our intention is that we build a new scout hut that fits well in its surroundings and offers a welcoming and accessible space that our predecessors would be proud of.”
The 4th Hinckley Scouts was first established in 1922 but closed in 1991. Plans to revive the group began in October 2004 and a year later the group was back up and running.
Kelly-Anne said initially the focus had been on developing the group and replacing old camping and activity equipment but now attention had turned to the hut.
She added: “The hut holds within its tired walls memories that span eight decades. It’s seen scout leaders go off to fight during the Second World War and it’s survived the antics of hundreds, if not thousands of cubs and scouts.
“We fully intend, where possible, to use the wood cladding of the building for another structure and will offer this to the Hinckley District Scout Association for use at Fox Coverts campsite to clad current structures, so the spirit of the scout hut can live on for future generations.”
So far Kelly-Anne has managed to raise £400 through her own endeavours and is currently collecting donated items in hope of selling them at a local car boot.
She is hoping businesses may come forward to offer sponsorship and that local people will back their fundraising efforts.
She said: “We need all the help we can get as we do not receive funding elsewhere.
“We need our local people, businesses, family and friends to help and support us to ensure that the future of 4th Hinckley Scouts continues for many years to come.”
The group has a Facebook page with details of the campaign and a just giving page at: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding /4thhinckleyscoutshutfund