GENERATIONS of Scouts went to Charlton Kings for a party to remember.More than 300 former and current Scouts turned out to enjoy the centenary celebrations of the 7th Cheltenham (Charlton Kings) Scout Group. Group Scout leader Julien LePlain said it was particularly impressive that the group had continued to operate through two world wars and said the event had been a big success.
Photographs of the centenary launch are now coming back and will be published under the following categories:
The “Oldest Scout in town” behind the camera.
Official Launch Night Photographs
“It was quite moving at times because the old boys discovered pictures of themselves, and some friends who went to war and never made it back, so in a lot of ways it was quite emotional….”
“It was quite moving at times because the old boys discovered pictures of themselves, and some friends who went to war and never made it back, so in a lot of ways it was quite emotional. I think they had a really good reminisce and it was great to have a mix of young and old. It’s an important landmark on our history. The Scout movement gives youngsters the chance to do things they might not otherwise get to do. It’s a great way of making lots of friends and creating a camaraderie. It’s very much about having fun.”
As testament to the hardiness expected of all Scouts, an outdoor barbecue took place along with tent and handicraft demonstrations.In addition, huge wall displays from past decades were put up in the headquarters to show what the old boys used to get up to. In tribute to them, Scout Nathan Baker wore a uniform from the 1940s.
A large centenary cake was enjoyed by all visitors including Scout leaders, Beavers, Cubs and Explorer Scouts affiliated to the group.
Scout George Dimery, 18, has been with the movement for the past 11 years. He said: “It was really good and interesting to be part of because I got to see the roots of where it all began. Seeing what they used to wear was quite funny too and the mix of young and old made it quite special. I’ve been part of the Scouts for so long because I get to do so many things through them.”