Dozens of youngsters sign up for adventure
A Paisley Scout troop has gone from zero to heroes in just over a month.
Scouts Scotland wanted to set up a troop in a deprived area in Renfrewshire and decided on Ferguslie Park.
And, since the call went out for members, lots of boys and girls have signed up for the adventure that Scouting offers.
Gary Ward, local development officer for the organisation, said: “The new Ferguslie group, based in the Tannahill Centre, is up and running and doing well.
“We have managed to get 47 young people through the door and a strong group of around 15 to 20 regular attendees each week, which is a good start.”
Two groups of Cubs and Beavers have been set up and these welcome children aged from six to eight and from eight to 10-anda-half.
They will now have the chance to meet regularly with other children and get involved with everything from crafts to kayaking.
And they will also have the opportunity to travel, as well as earn badges in a variety of subjects, and even take part on the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
Gary added: “We are the UK’s biggest mixed youth organisation.
“We change lives by offering six to 25-year-olds fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventures and the chance to help others so that we make a positive impact in communities.
“Scouts helps children and young adults reach their full potential.
“Scouts develop skills, including teamwork, time management, leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, c u l t u ra l awa reness and commitment.
“We help young people to get jobs, save lives and even change the world.”
Gary was taken on as a local development officer to work within the Renfrewshire area to develop the provision of Scouting or to implement Scouting where there is a need for young people to take part in adventurous and exciting activities.
He added: “We also require any adult volunteers who would be willing to spare some time to join our youth movement.
“We have flexible volunteering roles and welcome anyone to come along and take part in shaping young people’s lives.”
The Ferguslie troop meets on Friday nights from 6pm to 7.30pm, and anyone who wants to join or see what Scouting is like can just turn up.