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Scouts appeal for new leader

by Cheryl Latham
9/ 7/2008

CHEADLE scouts have been left devastated by the loss of their leader, which has forced the close-knit group to split up and transfer to other clubs accross Stockport.

But boys from Cheadle Heath Elks Own Scouts now say they are determined to secure a new leader and re-form their group.

A motorbike accident and subsequent operations, as well as a new job and a six-month-old baby left their scout leader Kelvyn Craig no option but to leave the group of seven scouts, who used to meet once a week in ‘the den’ next door to Stockport Academy.

The youngsters, who were working towards astronomy, pioneering, outdoor activities and IT badges before Kelvyn left, say it’s just not the same since they disbanded to other scouting groups.

Now, pro-active scout Jordan Witter, 14, has rallied around his pals to appeal for a new leader.

He said: "The group hadn’t been going long, but we got really into it and we were upset when we all got split up. Kelvyn re-started the group for kids in this area in September and we all really enjoyed going. We would love to all be back together again in our group and have the chance to go camping and complete our badges. If anyone would like to be our leader and carry on with the group, I really hope they get in touch."

Kelvyn was also sad to see the group disperse, but he could not run the group on his own and without the help of more volunteers, had no choice but to close.

"This scout group had been closed for about eight years, but I wanted to start it up again because scouting is so much fun and the kids get so much enjoyment out of it. I’d worked as an army cadet, but I had never been a Scout before. Working with kids is fantastic and I wanted to help the community, but unfortunately without even an assistant I physically couldn’t carry on."

Scouts assistant district commissioner Phil Santana-Reedy said: "We would absolutely love to get Cheadle Heath Elks Own Scouts back up and running. We respect Kelvyn’s decision to step down and completely understand his personal and health predicaments, but as with all district groups, if anybody would like to consider helping us and becoming a leader then please get in touch.

To help, call Phil on 07962 072 888.