Today 13 members of the 5th Dartford Scout Groups’ Earley Troop, 4 leaders and family members visited Biggin Hill airport on a trip arranged by Keith Furlong. We were shown around some of the airport including private planes, simulators and historic WWII buildings and bunkers by Air Scout leader Alan Piper and his knowledgeable colleagues. Alas the day did not have enough hours to see and do everything we would have liked, so all being well another visit can be arranged in the not too distant future.
Today the Falcon Patrol from the 5th Dartford Scout Group’s Earley Troop went bowling at the AMF Centre in Gravesend. The trip was arranged as a reward for winning the last Patrol Challenge, where points were gained for attendance, presentation, scouting challenges and games. Alas 2 members were unable to attend, but everyone there had a great time and I’m sure the Falcons will try just as hard in the current challenge to claim another reward, but the competition is hotting up already. Jack (top centre) pipped George (below centre) to win the match by just 1 pin. Well done chaps.
Tonight with the grateful help of Gary Missions, each of the Earley Troop patrols constructed and rode a hovercraft powered by an electric leaf blower.
Three of our scouts – Dan Ketley and Gareth Furlong of the Earley Troop and Josh Goodes of Burne Troop, attended a district ceremony at Holy Trinty Church in Margate. There were 50 Scouts/Sea scouts in total from all round Kent, with certificates presented by Wayne Bulpitt, the UK Chief Commissioner of The Scout Assocation. Well done lads, you’ve done us proud and set a an excellent example for next years patrol leaders and future scouts alike.
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 5th 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.
Tonight the Early Troop were proud to witness Gareth Furlong and Dan Ketley receive their Chief Scout Gold awards from District Commissioner – Angela Rainey. The Chief Scout Gold award is the highest accreditation a scout can be awarded and during her presentation, the District Commissioner advised that on average only 20 scouts in the whole district will receive this award. On behalf of the Earley Troop and all sections of the 5th Dartford Scout Group – Well done chaps, you’re setting a great example. 
