Members of all sections met at the hall at 10am prompt to parade the short distance to the Spital Street Methodist Church to celebrate and give thanks for the 94 years of scouting at the 5th Dartford Scout Group. As usual, the regular congregation were very welcoming and the Rev’d Tim Crome gave a thoroughly entertaining, interactive and thought provoking service and notably informal in his new Christmas jumper, which differed somewhat from the usual blue tunic to which we had become accustomed ;O)

During the service, we had readings from two scouts. The first; Phil Mason of the Earley Troop read from Psalm 72 – What sort of King?  The second reading came from Ben Hodges of the Burne Troop, who did an outstanding job having been substituted at the last minute. Ben’s reading was from Matthew 3: 1-6 – Let us all become monks! Following this second reading, Tim offered a challenge to all to take a short vow of silence, perhaps just 5 minutes to reflect and think about what’s really important.

We were suitably impressed when it was time for the Offertory, with our young members digging deeply and with enthusiasm to contribute and help towards the church’s running costs.

GSL Paul Boreham spoke of how the group has grown recently with the formation of new sections Edwards Beavers and Phillips Cubs and how new leaders have risen to the challenge and stepped up from assisting roles to lead the new sections.  In addition to giving thanks to the uniformed leaders of all sections, Paul took time to give thanks to the non uniformed helpers and instructors to whom the group is indebted, but none more so than Jim Lilleycrop who Paul publicly recognised with a small token of the group’s appreciation.

Once Paul had finished his address, Ted “Cougar” Essex announced to the congregation that both GSL Paul Boreham and AGSL Lyn Medcalfe had recently been awarded the Order of Merritt for their commitment to scouting, which they had modestly kept under their hats.  Congratulations to you both.

Once the formalities were over, the colours were paraded back to base and the celebrations began.  Read the other posts to see what we got up to……….

Many thanks to Tim, the congregation and the officers of the church for making us so welcome once again.

Many thanks for all that attended the raffle ticket selling on Saturday at Sainsburys at Crayford, an excellent turn out by the sections produced excellent results with all tickets being sold and over £700 being raised on the day.

There were many good comments too on how well the boys were turned out with smart uniforms.

Can we also ensure any outstanding books or sold stubs and money be returned not later than Friday 10th December to ensure all are entered in the Grand-Draw, which will take place on 16th December 2010.

Maggie Lilleycrop.

Prize list….

1st              Hamper (See picture)     –        value approx £60
2nd            Six bottles                        –       £25
3rd             Sweets                             –       £18
4th             Christmas cake               –       £12
5th             Christmas crackers         –       £10
6th             Christmas pudding          –       £5

In the past 12 months, Scouting in the UK has experienced its largest growth in over 50 years.  This in part is no doubt due to the new exciting role model the asociation has found in new Chief Scout Bear Gryll’s, but locally the 5th Dartford Scout group has started two new sections because of the public demand to be part of Our Adventure.  It’s not too late to join us as a Beaver or Cub, but places are limited so please act quick.