Members of all sections met @ 10am at the hall to parade the short distance to the Spital Street Methodist Church to celebrate and give thanks for the 93 years of scouting at the 5^th Dartford Scout Group.  As usual, the regular congregation were very welcoming and the Revd Tim Crome gave an entertaining and thought provoking service during which Dan Ketley of the Earley Scout Troop gave two readings. At the end of the service, GSL Paul Boreham took time to thank the congregation and Revd Crome for their hospitality and all sections, leaders and helpers for their efforts throughout the year, which had been difficult with the sad passing of  GSL Dick Medcalf, who had bravely fought illness for some time.  There was one exception however, in that there had been no mention of the Collins Pack or its leaders.  Had Paul forgotten the efforts put in by Ted, Sarah, Zara and co or was there something else afoot?  After a short pause, Paul surprised the congregation with a “This is your life” style prentation, which thanked and honoured Ted “Cougar” Essex for his achievements during his 40 years of tireless service to scouting leadership. Ted was clearly moved and said just a few words in thanks and reflection as he was presented with a fine tankard and “With Thanks” badge to mark the occasion.

With formalities over, the colours were paraded back to HQ, to eat lunch and prepare for the afternoons activities.  A party was laid on for the Beavers and Cubs, whist the Scouts and Explores who had attended the church service and parade, were taken to the Chatham Ski & Snowboard Centre for a taster session in ski or boarding followed by Toboggan/Cresta run and snow-tubing. 

Everyone had a fantastic time as the following pictures & video show.

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Thank you!

A big thanks to all the parents, family and friends of the 5th Dartford Scout Group who collected and donated the 2009 Sainsbury’s Active Kids vouchers this year.

It’s always worthwhile collecting these tokens regardless of how many or few you get as an individual because collectivly, they mount up.  In fact, this year we collected a staggering 14,495 points and Wendy, Del and the team have been beavering away (Yes, the pun was intended 😆 ) ensuring they were put to good use. 

Please see below how much free equipment we have been able to add to our stores for the benefit of our members because of your efforts.

6 Mega Scoots, 20 Compasses, 4 Vango 3 Man Tents, 12 Play Balls, 6 Poly PG Balls, 1 Orienteering Pack, 1 Sports First Aid Kit, 1 Basketball Ring, 6 Basketballs, 10 Mixing Bowls, 2 Soft Ring Toss Sets, 4 Sticky Monster Mitts, 2 Mango Flasks and a whisk.