Birstall Scout Group. Leaders and Trustees Annual Report. 2025/26.
Group Scout Leaders’ Overview
This report covers the period from Easter 2025 to Easter 2026. We have seen a variety of enriching activities and events for our Scout Group, illustrating the dedication and spirit of all the Scout sections and leaders involved. Notable highlights include our Bonfire Night, where families gathered to celebrate together amidst fireworks and festivities, and the Group Camp, which provided an excellent opportunity for everyone to bond over different activities and camping experiences. Our participation in the Rambling Fox Challenge and the Christmas Sleepover further added to the group's engaging year, all culminating in fantastic memories shared among the Scouting sections and leaders.
Throughout the year, members participated in numerous engaging meetings that focused on a range of skills, from fire lighting and canoeing to emergency aid and environmental challenges. There were also moments of fun such as the Easter egg treasure hunt and the games nights, where camaraderie was built among participants. These meetings not only fostered skills but also encouraged teamwork and participation.
We also saw the presentation of an amazing 28 Chief Scout Awards, recognising the dedication and hard work of our members. Eight were in Squirrels, demonstrating the strength of this still relatively new Section.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all our leaders for their continuous support and dedication over the past year. Their hard work and commitment play an essential role in ensuring that our Scouts have access to these wonderful experiences.
We look forward to another rewarding year, thanks to our enthusiastic Sections, Leaders, Trustees and supportive parents. We would also like to thank the local businesses and organisations that have supported us: DHL, Kumon, LE4, The White Horse, William Hercocks, Birstall Games Group and the Viking Reenactment Group. Your names are on our Thanks notice board in the Hut foyer for all to see. Everyone’s involvement is vital, and we encourage you to remain engaged in our Group activities and initiatives. Thank you all for making this year enjoyable, and here's to many more successful moments in the future of our Scouting journey.
| Section | Easter 24 | Easter 25 | Easter 26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrels | 10 | 20 | 16 |
| Beavers | 37 | 33 | 35 |
| Cubs | 34 | 47 | 39 |
| Scouts | 17 | 20 | 19 |
| Explorers | 0 | 0 |
12 |
| YoungLeader | s 1 |
2 | 1 |
| TOTAL | 99 | 122 | 122 |
| Waitinglist | 7 | 13 | 12 |
The number of youngsters in each Section of the Group is shown in the table. Every section is coeducational. Including the Joint Group Leaders, there were 21 Leaders and 8 Assistants at the start of the year. At the end of the year, there were 13 Leaders and 18 Assistants plus parent helpers.
We don’t include photographs in this report in case there are consent complications. However, if you are a member of the Group’s Facebook page, you will have been overwhelmed with photos again this year. If you aren’t yet a member, see here.
Nick & Sue Farnham, Joint Group Leaders
Section Reports
Squirrels
This year has seen a diverse range of activities and events for the Wednesday Squirrels, highlighted by memorable moments and achievements. Notable visits included the group camp and Bonfire Night, both providing opportunities for our young scouts to engage with one another and foster their sense of community.
Throughout the meetings, the programme encompassed an array of activities designed to enhance skills and creativity. From tie-dyeing and cooking to circus skills and even emergency aid training, the children have had the chance to explore new interests and develop valuable life skills. The inclusion of seasonal activities, like Halloween Games and Christmas Crafts, ensured that the meetings were enjoyable and engaging.
The past year also included several events that brought families together, such as the Squirrels' Christmas celebration and the Annual General Meeting. These gatherings serve not only as a platform for updates and discussions but also as a chance to strengthen bonds within our scouting community. Congratulations to Kiaan, Kayden, Noah, Jayden, Shane, Rian, Albert and Freddie who achieved their Chief Scout Acorns.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Sue and Ben for their unwavering support and the wealth of ideas they have contributed throughout the year. Their dedication has been instrumental in delivering a varied and enjoyable programme for the Squirrels.
Looking ahead, there are exciting plans in the pipeline. We can look forward to another group camp visit, as well as an engaging Squirrel Activity Day. Christmas events are also being planned, promising to bring cheer and festive spirit to the group.
As we approach the transition to new stages in scouting, we acknowledge those who will be moving up. We wish them all the best. Their contributions will be missed, and we commend their dedication during their time with the Squirrels.
Lastly, our gratitude goes out to the children for their enthusiasm and energy, which makes every meeting a pleasure for the leaders. A huge thank you is also due to the parents and volunteers who have supported our efforts behind the scenes, ensuring that the Wednesday Squirrels continues to thrive. We look forward to an enriching year ahead in scouting.
Maisie Farnham, Squirrel Leader
Tuesday Beavers
Beavers have enjoyed another amazing year, with plenty of badges being gained.
The Beavers have enjoyed a challenging and varied programme over the past year, which has supported them in their work towards activity and staged badges. Creating various crafts, cooking, working towards their challenge badges so they can gain their Chief Scout Bronze award, and celebrating bonfire night at the local scout camp, to name but a few.
We have presented four Chief Scout Bronze awards this term, with the recipients now moving up to the next section, Cubs. Congratulations to Toby, Isabella, Theo and Max. We wish them well on the next stage of their Scouting Adventure.
Towards the end of last year, the Beavers took part in a joint sleepover at the Scout Hut and did various Christmas-themed activities. The Beavers also enjoyed celebrating Scouting history, and are looking forward to a sleepover later on in 2026 to celebrate Beavers turning 30 years old!! This year, the Beavers have already had a jam-packed programme that includes celebrating Chinese New Year, having a backwards night and taking part in the RSPB garden birdwatch. We also celebrated World Book Day and completed the Book Readers badge.
After Easter, the Beavers have got lots more exciting fun and adventure to look forward to. Some examples are hikes and sleepovers, with lots more badges to be gained! The intake list is plentiful. We are happily running at 16 - 18 Beavers and will be able to for the foreseeable future.
My many thanks to the Tuesday Beaver Leadership team for their very hard work.
Sarah Putt, Tuesday Beaver Leader
Wednesday Beavers
The past year has been quite eventful for the Wednesday Beavers, marked by memorable gatherings and engaging activities. Among the highlights were cricket games in the garden, which were filled with laughing and a fair share of lost tennis balls over the fence. The group camp was another standout success, offering opportunities for camaraderie and learning, followed by the delightful Christmas sleepover that brought warmth and joy to the festive season.
Throughout the year, the Beavers participated in an array of meetings that introduced them to exciting skills and topics. Sessions covered everything from money skills to disability awareness, cooking, and even tie-dyeing. The meetings aimed not only to educate but also to entertain, with fun activities like pancake-making and Chinese New Year celebrations. The Beavers showed great enthusiasm during games and nature-focused activities as well, including the big bird watch, leaf printing, and emergency aid training.
Congratulations are in order for those who earned the Chief Scout Bronze award: Ayva, Riya, All, Mackson, Teddy and Elodiea. It’s a significant achievement that they should be proud of.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Ben and Maisie for their continuous support and creative ideas in planning these activities. Their contributions have greatly enhanced the experiences for the Beavers, making each meeting and event memorable.
Looking ahead, there is much to anticipate in the coming year, with plans for another group camp, Christmas events, and a wide range of engaging activities already in the pipeline.
Lastly, a big thank you to all the children for their enthusiasm and spirit, which make every meeting enjoyable. We are also grateful to the parents for their ongoing support and to the volunteers who help keep the group running smoothly.
Sue Farnham, Wednesday Beaver Leader
Wednesday Cubs
This report summarises the activities and achievements of the Wednesday Cubs over the past year, highlighting events, meetings, and the incredible efforts of our leaders.
Throughout the year, the Cubs enjoyed a variety of engaging activities. Notable points include the canoeing session, which provided the Cubs with the chance to learn skills while having fun on the water. The shooting event was another highlight, enabling participants to develop their marksmanship in a controlled and safe environment. Additionally, map-reading sessions equipped the Cubs with essential navigation skills, fostering independence and confidence in outdoor activities.
The group participated in several meetings that further supported their learning and growth. Activities ranged from exploring the countryside code to enjoying a shooting night. The meetings also included water testing, digital maker sessions, as well as an assortment of themed events such as pancake making and celebrations for the Chinese New Year. The Cubs took part in games on the park, enhancing teamwork and friendship within the group.
Looking at broader past events, several significant activities stood out. Splash Day provided a joyful and refreshing experience for everyone involved. The Annual Group Camp was a successful weekend, as was the Christmas Sleepover that allowed the Cubs to bond over festivities. Bonfire Night was also a memorable occasion, featuring both single and family tickets, bringing families together for a night of warmth and connection.
Chief Scout Awards were presented to Toby, James, Veer, Anabelle and Aiden, celebrating the dedication and accomplishments of our members. These awards reflect the hard work and commitment demonstrated by those who chose to go the extra mile in their Scouting journey.
As we look ahead, we can anticipate exciting activities such as the Group Camp and another Christmas Sleepover. These events promise opportunities for adventure and camaraderie among our members.
I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to our leaders, particularly Sue, our Group Leader, for guiding our Cubs; to Maisie for her ongoing support behind the scenes; and to Keith, Sarah Taylor, and Kam for their invaluable contributions. Each of you has played a critical role in making this year enjoyable and successful.
Lastly, thank you to all the Cubs for their enthusiasm and spirit that make this group a joy to lead. Your enjoyment is what drives our leaders and supports our efforts behind the scenes. Also, a special thank you to the parents for their continued support, as well as to the various volunteers who dedicate their time to making this a thriving environment for the children. We look forward to another year of Scouting adventures ahead.
Ben Farnham, Wednesday Cub Leader
Thursday Cubs
The past year for the Thursday Cubs has been filled with memorable moments and activities that brought both leaders and children together. Some of the highlights included a thrilling canoeing session with the Wednesday Cubs and Scouts during the summer. The group camp was particularly memorable, not just for the activities planned, but also for the torrential rain that led to some unique challenges. Bonfire night was another enjoyable occasion, where the
fantastic sausages were a definite crowd-pleaser. The Christmas sleepover concluded the year on a high note, providing fun and friendship among the members.
Throughout the year, the Cubs participated in a variety of meetings that focused on a range of skills and activities. These included Easter Egg hunts combined with air rifle shooting, athletics, and even unique experiences like blindfolded eating. Special events were held for significant celebrations, such as the
Chinese New Year and Sue’s birthday, where games and camaraderie flourished. The leaders certainly kept the sessions engaging with an array of skills-focused activities, including money skills workshops, hiking preparations, and festive cooking sessions during Easter. Three Chief Scout Silver Awards were awarded to Shyam, Dylan and Janak. Well done for all their hard work.
Looking ahead, there is much to be excited about in the coming year, as numerous activities are planned along with another group camp. The anticipation for these events promises continued enthusiasm among the Cubs.
As we look to the future, it is bittersweet as we say goodbye to Shyamal, who is leaving the section. Shyamal's contributions have greatly supported the Group and his presence will be missed. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Additionally, we look forward to seeing all the children transition into Scouts, where they will continue their journey of adventure and learning.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the leaders for their dedication, especially to Maisie, Kam, and Shyamal, whose support has been invaluable to the section. Thank you to the children for making it enjoyable for the leaders, and to the parents for your ongoing support, as well as the other volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. The teamwork and commitment truly make our scouting community thrive.
Sue Farnham Thursday Cubs Leader
Scout Section
This year has seen an array of activities and achievements within our scout group, showcasing the commitment and enthusiasm of our members. Between them, our scouts have earned 200 badges including money skills, navigator, snow sports, athletics, nights away, hikes and many of the challenge badges. Notably, two Chief Scout Awards were presented, to Sebastian and John, recognising their hard work and dedication throughout their time at scouts. We hope they are as proud of their achievement as we are.
The past year included a variety of meetings designed to engage and challenge our scouts. We have learnt navigation and used these skills to take part in a grid reference litter pick challenge, a what3words easter egg hunt, and a hike from Beacon hill to the Hut. Adventurous activities have included paddle boarding, rifle shooting, and paintballing (which the scouts had been hoping for, for a long time!).
We’ve taken part in the more traditional activities of scouting such as using knives, building fires, cooking, and pioneering projects. We’ve challenged the scouts to improve their teamwork. We took part in the County Rambling Fox event for the first time, and our scouts did extremely well in this. We are hoping to improve on last year’s performance when we take part again this coming April. We have been on group camp, adventure camp, Christmas sleepover,
expedition hike and sleepover and are planning more camps and overnight experiences for the coming year.
We have had a first for Birstall scouts when we invested a scout on the ice-skating rink just before the Christmas break. We also celebrated our community with events like Bonfire Night and Remembrance Parade, engaging not just with our group but also with those around us. Looking forward, the upcoming summer promises an exciting lineup of outdoor activities, including a highly anticipated trip to Belgium in August. This will undoubtedly serve as a highlight for our scouts and help foster lasting memories and connections among the group.
We have had valuable help from Niam as a young leader who volunteered to help the section as part of his Duke of Edinburgh award. He proved to be a huge asset to the section, and we were lucky to have his assistance. As we reflect on the past year, it is important to express our gratitude to the leaders of the group. I would like to thank Emma, Daniella, Jess, Kam, Sarah, and Nick for their unwavering support and commitment to our scouts. Their efforts have provided valuable skills and have been an inspiration to our members.
In closing, I would like to thank all our scouts for their enthusiasm and energy, making each gathering enjoyable. Additionally, heartfelt gratitude goes to the parents for their support and to all the volunteers behind the scenes who keep our scout group running smoothly. As we move into the next year, we look forward to building upon the successes and having even more enjoyable adventures together.
Rachel Turney, Scout Leader
Explorers
This year marked the exciting launch of our Explorers group, welcoming new members and fostering a spirit of adventure. We kicked off with a series of meetings, planning sessions that laid the groundwork for our various events, sports activities that encouraged teamwork, and fundraising efforts that brought us closer as a community.
Our past events were a blend of remembrance, celebration, and community engagement. The Remembrance Parade allowed us to honour those who have served, while Bonfire Night provided a fantastic opportunity for families to come together in a friendly atmosphere. The Christmas Sleepover was a highlight for many, filled with fun activities and bonding moments. In addition, we organised multiple fundraising mince pie sales through the Beavers and Cubs, which helped to fund our activities.
Most recently, the Expedition Challenge hike and sleepover demonstrated not only our commitment to outdoor activities but also the camaraderie developed during the experiences. These events have not only been about fun but have also instilled in our young members a sense of responsibility and teamwork.
I would like to take a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to our leaders, Jeremy and Rachel. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for our Scouts. Their efforts in planning and executing our activities deserve special mention, and we thank them for their continued commitment to our group.
Looking forward, we have exciting plans for the coming year, including a trip to Belgium and further rambling activities planned. These experiences promise to enhance the skills and confidence of our young members, setting the stage for more memorable adventures.
Finally, I want to thank all the members for their enthusiasm and engagement, making each activity enjoyable. A special thanks goes to parents and volunteers for your invaluable support, which plays a vital role in the smooth running of our group. Together, we look ahead to another wonderful year in Scouting, filled with new experiences and achievements.
Nick Farnham, Explorer Leader
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Trustees Report
As Trustees, we are responsible for managing the Group so that the Leaders and everyone who helps them can run the excellent programmes that give young people skills for life (and experiences they’ll remember forever). We manage the finances, make sure buildings and equipment are in good working order, assess risks and oversee safety. We check that the Group operates within the Scout Association’s Policy, Organisation & Rules (POR) and other regulatory requirements. We have met five times since the last Annual General Meeting; on 20 June, 5 September, 14 November, 9 January and 2 March. During the year, we have either introduced or updated our cash & financial reserves policy and our risk register. Our Trustee Skills Analysis, which we carried out the previous year, is still valid.
Achievements and Performance
The Leaders’ Reports earlier in this document highlight the wide range of achievements within the Group during the year. The Trustees wish to place on record their appreciation of the time, effort and commitment of all leaders, assistants and parent-helpers who made this happen. It’s worth repeating that EVERYONE connected with the Group is a volunteer.
Constitution and Trustees Review
We adopted a new constitution in 2018 when we became a registered charity in our own right. In 2024, the Scout Association produced a new model constitution. Adopting it would mean that trustees would be limited to a maximum term of nine years. As a Group, we have had considerable difficulty in recruiting new trustees. For example, a notice on the front page of the Birstall Post last year didn’t generate any response. The Charity Commission does not require that maximum terms be applied. In the interests of ensuring that effective governance of the Group continues, we are maintaining our practice of electing trustees for one year regardless of the period already served. Other than this, we carry out all the governance requirements set out in POR. Last year, we sent our annual report to local schools, local churches, parish councillors, borough councillors, our County Councillor and our MP. If anyone reading this report would like to know more about being a trustee, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
The Trustees during 2025/26 and the year they first became a trustee are shown below. The Group Leaders are ex-officio, which means that they are trustees for as long as they stay in that role.
role. |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Kerchey | Chair | 2015 | Vic Dolby | Trustee | 2020 | |
| Nick Farnham | Joint GroupLead | 2015 | David Mason | Trustee | 1994 | |
| Sue Farnham | Joint GroupLead | 2005 | Ged Sessions | Trustee | 2000 | |
| Nick Bryan | Treasurer | 2007 | Reece Taylor | Trustee | 2025 | |
| Sam Bone | Trustee | 2013 | Keith Torrance | Trustee & Secretary | 1994 |
Premises and Property
We do not employ any staff. The Hut is cleaned by a self-employed cleaner. All other regular work connected with the Group is carried out by volunteers.
The buildings are insured for £213,596 and the contents for £26,012. These sums are indexlinked. The Group’s insurance policies include protection for claims following injury to third parties or damage to their property.
The buildings are inspected regularly and maintained by volunteers, mainly trustees. The fabric is in satisfactory condition. In the last year, we have significantly improved the area at the rear of the Hut by clearing brambles and laying 59 slabs. Many thanks to trustees Vic and Ged. We have recently upgraded the fire alarm.
The trustees look to generate income by letting the Hut when it’s not required for scouting activities. It’s used for maths and English classes by the local branch of Kumon UK three times a week and by other local organisations less regularly. Enquiries about hire should be made to Nick Bryan at nickjbryan5@gmail.com or any trustee.
Camping and other equipment is checked after each use. It is replaced if not fit-for-purpose or out-of-date.
Both the Hut and the land on which it stands are owned freehold by the Group. Details are with the Scout Association Trust under ref: LT457600. There may be a narrow strip of land between the rear door of the Reading Room and its emergency exit door which is still owned by the Garner family who took over the Reading Room, but this doesn’t affect our use of the Hut.
Group Status
Our official title is the 53rd Leicester (Birstall St James) Scout Group although we are better known as Birstall Scout Group. Our address is the Scout Hut, Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DJ; email Birstall53rd@outlook.com
We are an unincorporated educational charity, registered with the Scout Association number 12137/3. The Association’s Royal Charter gives authority for the Association’s bye-laws and rules under which we are governed. Since 2018, we have been registered in our own right with the Charity Commission, number 1181325. We are a member (ID:32383) of the National Council of Voluntary Organisations.
Our Group is a member of the North-East District of Leicester Scouts. We play an active role in the District, both as a Group and on the District Trustee Board.
Objectives
The objectives of the Group are those of the Scout Association: to help young people develop skills, values, and confidence to become responsible members of their communities. Scouting provides opportunities for young people to have fun, experience the outdoors, and take part in a range of activities.
Other aims include helping young people to:
-
make new friends, gain confidence, and reach their full potential
-
develop the skills, values, and confidence they need to make ethical choices
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identify opportunities to help others and get involved in their community
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appreciate the features and diversity of society
The Scout Association's core values include integrity, respect, care, belief, and co-operation.
Finance
Treasurer’s Comments on 2025 Accounts
Income. Events total of £8,992 includes £1,340 income for the Belgium trip in 2026. That leaves an income for 2025 of £7,652. There has been an increase in HQ Hire income following regular bookings from two more groups which should hopefully continue.
Expenditure. Events expenditure of £8,382 includes £386 for events in 2026. Equipment cost of £1,752 consists of £1,443 camping equipment and the rest general activity equipment. Capitation (the membership fee) was £5,696 and Online Scout Manager/GoCardless collection cost was £480, making the total of £6,176. Repairs and renewals include an increased cost for cleaning of £1,218 and £881 for the refurbishment of the area at the rear of the Hut. Utilities are
broadband £463, electric £624, gas £783 and water £737. Administration costs include £500 for the auditor and £272 for OSM software
Income & Expenditure Account for 2025
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Income | £ | £ | |
| Membership Fees (Subs) | 15,258 | 15,423 | |
| Events (camps, expeditions etc.) | 8,992 | 9,056 | |
| Gift Aid | 2,990 | 2,931 | |
| HQ Hire | 2,395 | 2,098 | |
| Donations | 1,110 | - | |
| Fundraising | 438 | 273 | |
| Bank Interest | 204 | 125 | |
| Grants | - | - | |
| Uniforms | - | 5 | |
| TOTAL | 31,387 | 29,911 | |
| Expenditure | |||
| Events (camps, expeditions etc.) | 8,382 | 10,307 | |
| Membership fees to HQ, County & District | 6,176 | 5,608 | |
| Repairs and renewals | 3,027 | 1,776 | |
| Utilities | 2,610 | 2,583 | |
| Section Activities | 2,327 | 2,504 | |
| Equipment | 1,752 | 1,665 | |
| Insurance | 991 | 1,058 | |
| Badges | 883 | 1,042 | |
| Administration Costs | 822 | 910 | |
| Uniforms | 650 | 156 | |
| AGM & Leader Meetings | 513 | 452 | |
| Fundraising | 202 | 671 | |
| Training | 170 | - | |
| TOTAL | 28,505 | 28,732 | |
| Surplus (Deficit) | 2,882 | 1,179 |
Balance Sheet
| Balance Sheet | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| COIF Charities Deposit Fund | 8,000 | 2,500 | |
| Cash at Bank | 5,622 | 8,240 | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | 13,622 | 10,740 | |
| Represented by: | |||
| ACCUMULATED FUND | |||
| OpeningBalance | 10,740 | 9,560 | |
| Excess of Income over Expenditure | 2,882 | 1,180 | |
| 13,622 | 10,740 |
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of 53rd Leicester [Birstall St James] Scout Group
I report on the accounts of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2025. Responsibility of Group Executive Committee. As the charity's trustees, the Group Executive Committee is responsible for the preparation of the accounts.
Basis of Examiner's Report. My examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Group and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit. Consequently, I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts.
Independent Examiner's Statement. In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
1] to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached,
2] which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the accounting rules of the Group's constitution have not been met.
AF Tomlinson Accountant. 10 Melba Way Birstall Leicester LE44GT
Trustees Report signed by:
……………………………………… Date:………… ……………………………………….. Date: …… Michael Kerchey (Chairman) Nick Bryan (Treasurer)