Local Scout Group Celebrates 70th Anniversary In Style

Tuesday, August 18, 2009.
Posted by Fiona Riddell (fionariddell@aol.com).

Seventy Years Of The Seventy-First

Local Scout group continues to celebrate 70th anniversary in style with barbecue and barn dance!

One of oldest Scout groups in the area continues to celebrate its 70th anniversary year with a series of special events. Last weekend saw the group stage a spectacular barbecue and barn dance at Skelmorlie Mains Farm, kindly hosted by local farmer Norman Stirrat and his wife Jocelyn.

Even the adverse weather couldn't dampen the spirits of more than 100 group members, leaders, parents, friends of the group and former scouts who turned out to make the event a unique part of the group's celebrations. The evening featured Scottish dancing, live entertainment, games for the children and a tasty barbecue served up by the group leaders.

The 71st Ayrshire Scout Group was originally founded in 1939 and has grown considerably over the years. It now offers Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer sections for more than 100 boys and girls from the villages of Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay.

Group Cub Leader Alistair "AKELA" Wyllie highlighted the valuable contribution the group has made to the lives of boys – and now girls – since 1939. He said: "Being part of the 71st has allowed generations of cubs and scouts from Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay to forge new friendships, gain confidence, challenge themselves, help other people and broaden their view of the world. Reaching our 70th anniversary is a major milestone and I hope we may go on for another 70 years."

Other events planned for the anniversary celebrations include a weekend camp at Knock Castle during September and a group show in early 2010.

71st Ayrshire Scout Group turn 70!