The 58th Aberdeen Scout Group recently held their AGM and Family Fun night, which was well attended. Peter Brawley was elected Chairman to replace Donald Forbcs who has stepped down. Many thanks are due to Donald whose energy and commitment to the Group have been invaluable. We look forward to working with Peter who has previously served as a parent committee member.

Issues facing the Group include: Declining Cub numbers -recruitment drive will soon be initiated Aileen, our Beaver Leader, has resigned due to changing job. Help needed and support for Eleanor who is keen to continue. Contact Simon if you can help.

The new Explorer Scout section for 14 to 18 year-olds is fast becoming a reality. This provides exciting activities focussed on the needs of this age group and we are in discussions with the Scout Groups from Cults, Milltimber, Drumoak and Maryculter to join together for this age group with activities possibly centred on Templars Park

Fundraising -I

Bag-packing at Sainsbury's on Saturday 18th May. Support requested from all Scouts, Ventures and parents of Beavers and Cubs. We hope to collect at every till and we are looking for volunteers for 2 hours, 4 hours or all day. Please put this date into your diaries.

Fundraising - II

The sponsored walk of West Highland Way in aid of the Scouts going to Thailand is organised for the week starting 1st June. Twelve are involved including the 3 Scouts going to Thailand and 3 Leaders from the 58th. Please be generous with your sponsorship!

Scouts

The Scouts continue to be well supported, with around 20 most evenings. This term a number of Scouts have gained DI.Y, Cycling and Hobbies badges as well as learning about First Aid including CPR on a 'Rescussi-Ann' dummy! Trips to Cults Academy swimming pool provided an opportunity to gain a stage or two in Swimming badges.

More adventurous activities included a day trip to the Lecht for skiing, which was well attended and great fun. About a dozen Scouts also had a go at scuba-diving in a swimming pool in Aberdeen - a new and enjoyable experience for most of them, and perhaps they'll expect to progress to the Great Barrier Reef next year!

The highlight of the term was the annual 5-a-side football competition at the Beach Leisure Centre. The 58th entered 2 teams, and the A-team beat off strong competition from 20 other teams (including two tense penalty shoot-outs in the quarter- and semi­finals) to win the trophy for the first time in our history!

Planning for the summer term is underway. Fifteen Scouts and two or three leaders are looking forward to the summer activity week at Lochgoilhead Outdoor Centre on July 20-27th. Full details to follow soon.

We plan to celebrate our 25 Anniversary on 25 June with an event at Templars Park. Details and invitations at a later date.

Group Scout Leader, Simon Sawyers