It’s another blow for break-in scout group
ASCOUT group that was devastated after two break-ins at its clubhouse last year has been dealt a further blow.
Thieves broke in to the 1st Bredbury and Woodley scout hut in Hipley Close, Woodley, in November last year by making a hole in the kitchen wall – just as renovations were being completed after a previous burglary.
Now the floor in the hut has collapsed, leaving the group with a repair bill totalling £15,000, and members are appealing to local businesses for help.
Scout leader Kay McConnell said; “The situation has gone from bad to awful.
“What we think has been happening when it rains is there is no drainage on the outside, so the water has been seeping into the building and getting into the wood and rotting it.”
Kay said she first noticed there was a problem with the floor when they were repairing the hole in the kitchen wall, and then one day part of it just gave way. Now they have to replace the whole floor.
Faced with the mammoth task of raising £15,000 they are trying to put on a fundraising event each month, and have so far got together around £2,500, £1,000 of which was donated by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Cheshire Freemasons.
They have also received donations from the Romiley, Marple and District Lions Club, and The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund.
Kay said: “We want to say a big thank you to those who have already donated. Without their donations we would have to seriously think about closing down the group.”
Fundraising events put on have included a car boot sale, sponsored walk, beetle drive, and a stall at Marple Carnival.
Kay said: “We need some help from local businesses. If anyone is able to donate time or materials such as some sand or gravel, or anything like that, it would be really appreciated.
“We are also looking for any kids who would like to join, as we are still going. The Explorers have kindly let us use their hut, which is just around the corner on George Lane.”
The group holds sessions for beavers between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on Mondays, cubs between 7pm and 8.30pm on Wednesdays, and scouts between 7.30pm and 9pm on Tuesdays.
Anyone able to help out or interested in getting involved can contact Kay by e-mailing kay2506@ hotmail.co.uk.