COWDENBEATH'S 46th Fife Scout Group are looking to recruit a number of adults to help run the various sections at their Wemyss Street base.

The Scout Group run Beavers (ages 6-8), Cubs (ages 8-10.5), Scouts (ages 10.5-14.5), Explorers (ages 14.5 – 18).

Currently they are having to turn children away because of a shortage of leaders.

Said Executive member of the 46th Fife, Graham Gilbert: "Two of our leaders are leaving to go to university AND this leaves a big gap.

"The Scout Group has tripled in size in the last four years, has improved both the Scout Hall and the camping equipment investing over £15K in doing so. In addition we have bought a minibus and trailer not only for our use but as a low-cost transport option for the Cowdenbeath/Crossgates communities to use.

"We share our hall with an autism group, a keep fit group, lady quilt makers and dance groups.

"Our large tentage is borrowed annually by the community council where we help out at the local gala day, the five-kilometre run and switching on the Christmas lights decorations.

"The children also regularly raise funds for other charities. We run archery events not only for our children but other groups.

"We send our Scouts abroad and to Jamborees and support families that would struggle financially allowing their children to attend events. We are very proud of the fact that we have a history that no child has ever been excluded from events on cost grounds alone".

In two years’ time the Group are going to celebrate 100 years of service to the community and the plan is to take most of the group to a camp on Denmark with trips out to Legoland and Tivoli Gardens.

Added Graham: "As you can imagine this will cost parents quite a bit but with grant applications and fund raising each child should pay about 60% of the true cost … children from less fortunate families and those with more than one child in the group will go for at a far lower cost – that’s what Scouters and our parents helpers advocate. We also run an outstanding programme of events for the children helping them progress through their badges everything from crafts, skiing, sub aqua, sailing, hiking, and of course more traditional Scouting skills such as camping, cooking etc.

"So, do you need to be a combination of an Olympian athlete and Bear Grylls ... far from it! We have leaders of all ages and walks of life. I could tell you it is only an hour a week but of course that’s not true. We all give what we can but you do get a lot of satisfaction".

He outlined what is involved: "So who are we looking for? Well firstly someone that likes working with children, you would need to agree with the Group Scout Leader what age group and role would suit you best (usually this is over a coffee.)

"Secondly you need to have some time to spare usually about two hours a week and one day of a weekend every so often (this really depends on what role you choose to volunteer for). All adults working with children need to go through a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) assessment which is paid for by the group.

"Do you need “Scouting Skills” … No not at all, we all bring life skills we can use, the rest can be taught and you will quickly pick it up. I think most leaders would say firstly there is a lot of fun to be had along the way and working with youngsters keeps you youthful.

"Also there is great fulfilment from the mutual support, friendship and teamwork that exists within the movement. But the best bit is watching youngsters progress and turn into good citizens getting decent jobs and how Scouting can help a child develop confidence he or she never though they would have.

"So, if any of this has aroused your interest, we can use all adults over the age of seventeen of any ability so please contact our Group Scout Leader David Kennedy on 07979 595211 / 01592 564973 we really would like to hear from you … One last thought as leader you never really know how you can affect the life of a young person – just take my word for it you will!"