Much Wenlock Scout Group have taken over the former Youth Club at Station Road as part of a Community Asset Transfer from Shropshire Council. Led by Andy Barker and Simon Ross, the groups had previously been based at the town’s Priory Hall for more than 30 years… but it had become unfit for purpose.
Beaver and Cub pack leader Loren Reeve explains, “We’ve had some incredible times in the old Scout hut, but it was time to move on. An incredible amount of effort was put into making Priory Hall suitable, and I’m pleased to say the effort has been replicated for our new HQ.”
The building, which had not been used for about four years, had a collapsed ceiling, leaking pipes and gutters, unpainted walls and an overgrown garden. Work has been done to put the collapsed roof back up, ensure all the fire regulations of the building are met, install new lighting, paint all the walls and make the building a suitable, welcoming place, with the first Scout troop meetings held in January.
The Beavers group is now at capacity, while a new Cub pack started after Easter. The Scout troop, which has been running at Much Wenlock for over 40 years is thriving in the new building, but, Andy says, “we’re looking for a Scout leader. We have adult help for most sections, but it’s really difficult to get Leaders. Anyone interested can email muchwenlockgsl@gmail.com.”
Reaching a milestone
There’s a silver lining to this year’s Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre. Neil Thomas reports. For many people, it is the start of the Christmas countdown.
