Scouts prepared to battle for hut cash

Group sends out appeal for help

BATTLING Royton scouts are sending out an SOS for funds to help replace their crumbling scout hut.

The 3rd Royton scouts have lodged a planning application to demolish their existing base in Old Edge Lane and replace it with something fit for the 21st century.

But if their application is approved, they will have another battle on their hands — to drum up enough cash to pay for the new building. If they fail it could spell the end of their adventures.

Scout leader Dave Sedgewick said: “The old hut has been there as long as this scout group has — since 1964.

“The heat constantly escapes through the roof and we recently had to get all the electricity replaced after it was condemned.

“We’re having to throw good money after bad all the time making repairs and it’s only a matter of time before it simply falls down on our heads.”

But to realise their dream of a new meeting place, complete with a bigger hall, storeroom and disabled access, the scouts need cash.

“We’re not sure how we’re going to raise the money,” said Dave.

“But we know that if we can’t the group will probably have to fold after 45 years because there’s nowhere else for them to go.”

And it wouldn’t just be the scouts who face the chop — the St Anne’s beevers and cubs also meet at the dilapidated hut.

Dave said: “Obviously it’s a really difficult time for people with the recession, but we’d be really grateful for any amount of funding any person or organisation could offer us to help us get this new base.

“Their time here means an awful lot to the boys.

“It’s a chance for them to have a life outside home and school and an opportunity to make new friends.

“They’d be really devastated if we had to close the group.”

Anyone who thinks they might be able to help the group is asked to phone Dave on: 07970 207 684.