Portlethen Cub Scouts in Danger of Closing Can you help?

2.00.00pm GMT Tue 2nd Feb 2010

Portlethen Cub Scouts are in danger of closing due to a lack of leaders.

Councillor Paul Melling said: " I attended a recent meeting when the leaders were appealing to the public to try and help stop this happening.

"An approach to senior pupils at Portlethen Academy also failed. I had hoped some 6 th year pupils could be persuaded to find out more about the Cub Scouts and perhaps help out with this very deserving group but unfortunately no one came forward.

"By helping, they could gain a credit towards a Sports Leader UK, youth achievement award or Asdan certificate in community volunteering. All are run at the academy. In obtaining these awards it helps young people make some progress in the employment stakes. Its quite simple, you help us and you can help yourselves to an award.

"Parents in the community too could help. Maybe not to be a leader and put on the shirt, as they say, but to become a helper. Just see how much the cubs enjoy themselves.

"What a shame it would be if we lost the group. There would be nowhere for the Beavers to move up to and no Cubs to move up to Scouts.

"The Scouts are where they can work towards their Duke of Edinburgh awards etc."

Councillor Melling pointed out that Cub Scouts promote community friendship and citizenship . "They are the adults and leaders of the future."

Fellow ward councillor Ian Mollison also supported the appeal. "As a former Cub Scout - albeit many years ago - I know first hand how much fun it is belonging to a Cub pack. L et's not let this group fold."

Councillor Melling added: "Don't let the fun and excitement of going to camp and sleeping under canvas be an experience that could disappear from young lives."

He appealed for anyone interested to contact Scout Leader Brian Black ( 0771 537 7162).