We continue to run with a steady number of approximately 36 but in order to keep going we really need new members, especially ‘young blood’ as most of us are now at a ‘certain age’! We meet alternative months and have a variety of interesting speakers plus outings and would really welcome more people who have either been in Scouting in some capacity or are still leaders or helpers. Please get in touch with me if you are interested and I can give you more information.
I am delighted to report that two of our members received Awards this year – Dick received the Silver Wolf and Mike the Award of Merit – both richly deserved for all their hard work and dedication to Scouting.
A request went out to our members for assistance in marshalling the traffic at last year’s St. George’s Day Parade held in Knowle and we were able to provide help. As usual, we also welcomed everyone to the AGM in June and ensured the attendance lists were completed for both District AGMs and the County AGM.
Unfortunately our planned speaker for May 2018 had to cancel but we filled the gap by holding a quiz – always a popular and competitive evening. In July we once more attended Hall Green Little Theatre and this time saw a comedy entitled ‘One Man, Two Governors’ which was very entertaining. In September we had a fascinating talk entitled ‘My Early Years at the Savoy Hotel’ which was really interesting. November, as always, is the month we have a fun evening with games, quizzes etc. followed by a fish & chip supper.
Our Carol Service took place in the lovely Chapel of St. Mary’s Church, Hobs Moat, attended by members of both Districts and County staff. The collection went to a very deserving cause, Solihull Young Carers.
The first meeting of 2019 was held in January where we took a trip abroad via slides and accompanying anecdotes from one of our own members. Chris entertained us with his adventures and experiences travelling on his motor bike.
Another of our annual events is the ever popular Beer & Skittles evening held at the Hall Green Home Guard Club and this takes place in March and is always a sell out. Not only do we enjoy several extremely competitive games of skittles but we also have a ‘free’ raffle and a delicious home cooked meal.
In May we had a most entertaining and fascinating talk by a lady who received an invitation in 2016 from Buckingham Palace to receive Maundy Money. We learned of the history of this ancient ceremony and the preparation that goes into making it all run with absolute precision. A wonderful and enlightening talk by Mrs Philp who not only entertained us with her preparations for the big day but also brought along the Money and the beautiful Programme giving every detail of the whole service.
My grateful thanks, as always, to Barbara for booking speakers and outings, Mike for balancing the books and Dick who helps organise outdoor events but most of all to our members for their continued support.
Sue
County Scout Active Support Manager