Volunteers give scout hut facelift

A CARDIFF Scout Hut has received a glamorous makeover thanks to a team of generous volunteers.

A team of Network Rail directors and staff dedicated more than 90 hours of volunteer leave to decorate the Scout Hall in Rumney in the colours of the group’s neckerchief.

The Scout Hall sits closely to Mardy Road Bridge, which has been reconstructed and raised for overline equipment needed to electrify the railway.

As part of the work the team also transformed the garden by tacking the overgrowth around the hall used by more than 100 boys and girls.

Shane Andrews, group Scout leader at Rumney Scouts, said: “Part of the Scouting ethos is to make a positive impact in the community and Network Rail have done just that. We’re extremely grateful that Network Rail chose us for their day of action.

“We’re one of the biggest youth groups in the east of Cardiff, with over 100 boys and girls aged between six and 14 and we now have a fresh looking garden and a hall decorated in our group colours, giving our Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and adult volunteers a far greater sense of belonging.”

Lisa Higson, Beaver Scout leader at Rumney Scouts, said: “I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of all involved with Rumney Scouts, especially our young people.

“The Network Rail team have worked tirelessly on our hall and grounds, there is such a huge improvement inside and out.

“The garden seems so much larger now that the overgrowth has been cut back.

“This will allow us to offer a more varied outdoor programme and a safer environment for all.”

Bill Kelly, acting route managing director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “It was our absolute pleasure to spend our time helping to bring some life back to this muchloved Scout Hall.

“We are always looking for ways to give back to the communities we serve, and we hope in a small way this shows our thanks to the local community for their patience while we completed essential upgrade work in the area in recent months.”