Rugby ace helps open Scouts’ hall
IT HAS taken months of hard work and fundraising, but a group of Scouts can now proudly call their home their own.
The 2nd Llandaff Scouts were told they had to raise £250,000 to buy their hall or they would have to find a new home.
But after almost two years of fundraising, they did it and have now been able to show off their renovated hall to those who helped them.
The group, who meet at the Methodist/URC Christchurch in Llandaff North, celebrated the opening of their base on Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
They were joined by former Wales international star Sir Gareth Edwards and 200 other supporters.
They held their own fundraising events but had generous donations from celebrities like BBC Radio 1 presenter Huw Stephens and even an anonymous £500 cash donation.
After receiving the keys, the group transformed the hall with a DIY SOSstyle 24-hour makeover in August, with help from local tradesmen and residents to paint the walls, remove trees and provide refreshments to those volunteering.
Speaking about the opening, assistant Scout leader Abbie Gibbins said: “It was an absolutely incredible day.
“We were supported by more than 200 people and it was a really great atmosphere, with everyone speaking highly of what we had done and the considerable amount we have achieved.
“It was to thank the community for their part in it and for donating.”
Abbie, 38, who was the first-ever Girl Scout in Wales, added: “It just goes to show that Llandaff North really is in the heart of the community. The residents and the people that supported us were incredibly generous.
“Our leaders have been amazing and gave their heart and soul.
“We’re looking forward to the next big challenge – growing the group – and we have lots of activities we’re planning.”
Founded in 1908, the group currently has 120 members and is hoping to accommodate around 25 more Scouts as one of the biggest groups in the district.
The group plans to include a climbing wall at the hall in Bellvue Crescent and make the site accessible for people with disabilities.