www.8thworthing.org.uk/report-2023
Annual report and accounts 2022-23
8th Worthing Sea Scouts Registered Charity no. 279339
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| Content |
|---|
| Agenda 3 |
| Previous Minutes 4 |
| Trustee Board 6 |
| Group Scout Leader 8 |
| Group Chair 10 |
| Group Treasurer 12 |
| Port Beavers 17 |
| Starboard Beavers 19 |
| Starboard and Midship (now Port) Cubs 21 |
| Port Scouts24 |
| Starboard Scouts 26 |
| Osprey ESU 28 |
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www.8thworthing.org.uk/report-2023
8TH WORTHING GROUP SCOUT COUNCIL
Annual General Meeting
Tuesday 4th July 6:30pm
8th Worthing HQ
AGENDA
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Introduction and welcome
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Apologies for absence
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To approve the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 6th July 2022
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Governance topics
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a. Adopt the model constitution from Policy, Organisation and Rules
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b. Note the Group’s financial year
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c. Agree the number of members that may be elected to the Trustee Board
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d. Agree the quorum for each of the Group Scout Council (including this AGM), meetings of the Group Trustee Board, meetings of any sub-committees
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Review of the previous year
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a. The Group Scout Leader’s review of Scouting in 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group
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b. To receive and consider the Annual Report of the Group Trustee Board including the annual Statement of the Accounts
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Making appointments
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a. To approve the Group Scout Leader’s nomination of the Group Chair
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b. Election of the Group Secretary
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c. Election of the Group Treasurer
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d. Elections of members to the Group Trustee Board
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e. To approve the Group Scout Leader’s nominations to the Group Trustee Board
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f. To appoint the Independent Examiner
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Close
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Minutes AGM 2022
1 Welcome and Introduction
Mark A thanked all for coming, introduced District reps, Explained process of the evening. Introduced the executive committee. Explained it had been a tough year with the loss of Hairy, and all money raised in his name had been put towards a new Bell tent for the group.
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Presented Pet with flowers and thanked for service as she stepped down as GSL
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Pet said it had been a blast and that she ‘may be back!’
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- Roof project was mentioned in that work was to begin at end of July. Therefore HQ would be out of bounds.
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• The development 3year plan is published and available to view. It’s focus is to get people in and creating the best for 8[th] Worthing. This includes creating a partnership with a sailing club and training.
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- Mark A said the group was looking for a new treasurer.
2 Apologies for absence
Diane Waring, Kevin Lawrence
3 Approval of the minutes of the previous meeting of the Group Scout Council
Proposed; Al Chartres, 2nd; Fiona Bodey
4 The Group Scout Council to receive and consider the annual report and accounts
It was mentioned there was an error on Page 12 of the report. The date was 2021 but should be 2022. Correct copies were offered to anyone who wished to have one.
- We currently have a healthy balance but this will go once the roof bills were paid on completion of the works.
•
- Proposed; Al Chartres, 2[nd] Louise Howarth
5 Approval of the Group Scout Leader’s nomination of the Group Chair
• Mark Anderson
5.1 Proposed; Mark Mears, 2[nd] Al Chartres
6 Election of the Group Secretary
*Samantha Fullman
Proposed; Mark Anderson, 2[nd] Al Chartres
7 Election of the Group Treasurer
*Vacant, stood down 31/03/22
Mark Anderson asked anyone interested to let the Exec group know.
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Minutes AGM 2022 cont.
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8 Election of members of the Group Scout Council to the Group Executive Committee
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Barry Balchin (for Cubs/Scouts)
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Alison Marino (for Explorers)
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Vacant
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Vacant
Proposed; Mark Anderson, 2[nd] Harvey Cranford
9 Appointment of Non-executive roles
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Allan Gee (independent examiner)
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Robert Tennent (Gift Aid Administrator)
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Barbara Wells (Group Administrator)
10 Presentations
Alison presented with flowers as thank you for all her hard work on the Development Plan
Final cost for AGM 2022 = £683.99 includes £50 for cake and £100 for Flowers
11 Close of Meeting
At 18:56
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Trustee Board
| Trustee Board | Trustee Board |
|---|---|
| 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group is registered charity number 279339. The list below shows our current trustees as at | |
| 04/07/2023. You can search for our charity number on theCharity Commission websitefor lots more informaton. | |
| Group Scout LeaderMark Mears | mark.mears@8thworthing.org.uk |
| Deputy Group Scout Leader (Digital) | Paul Chaplain paul.chaplain@8thworthing.org.uk |
| Deputy Group Scout Leader (Activities)Kevin Lawrencekevin.lawrence@8thworthing.org.uk | |
| Deputy Group Scout Leader (Young Leaders)Harry Rippon harry.rippon@8thworthing.org.uk | |
| Group Chair Mark Anderson |
mark.anderson@8thworthing.org.uk |
| Group Secretary Samantha Fullman | samantha.fullman@8thworthing.org.uk |
| (Parent Rep) | |
| Group TreasurerRobert Tennent | robert.tennent@8thworthing.org.uk |
| Elected Alison Marino | alison.marino@8thworthing.org.uk |
| ( Parent Rep) | |
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Trustee Board cont.
Co-Opted Nigel Rippon nigel.rippon@8thworthing.org.uk
Co-Opted James Kennedy james.kennedy@8thworthing.org.uk
( Parent Rep)
Co-Opted Elizabeth Holmes elizabeth.holmes@8thworthing.org.uk ( Parent Rep)
Co-Opted Alec Irvin alec.irving@8thworthing.org.uk ( Parent Rep)
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Group Scout Leader
Welcome to 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group’s annual report and accounts for the period 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023. This is my frst year as Group Scout Leader (GSL) for 8th Worthing, it’s been a pleasure to lead the group thorough to the 95th Celebrations.
This report highlights the incredible dedication of the volunteers that, directly and indirectly, prepare so many young people with skills for life. Please read all the section reports for details of their events. The focus for my report is a Group overview and it is a little different again this year as we have had no groupwide events.
I start my report to mark the loss of any important member of 8th Worthing, in September we shared the sadness of the loss of Akela Deidre Green after 25 years of commitment to 8th Worthing and receiving the Award for Merit for contribution to Scouting. As GSL, I just want to reach out to thank the family for allowing 8th Worthing to provide a guard of honour at the funeral and with the contribution to the group which we have purchased a new Bell Tent named Deirdre.
Summer 2022 marked the frst year since the Covid pandemic and I am pleased to report that the Explorers, Scouts and Cub sections managed to get back under canvas for the frst time in a few years. It was great to see all the pictures of the activities and a massive thank you to the Leaders and supporters that allowed these experiences to happen for the young people at 8th Worthing. I also want to especially thank Kevin and Paul for leading the water activity days for the Cub and Beaver sections in the summer which allowed all sections to beneft from the excellent range of water equipment at 8th Worthing.
The Trustee board have continued to support 8th Worthing and guarantee our long-term future which has included the replacement of the roof in the summer. A big thank you to 2nd Worthing for housing all our kit to allow camps to continue as well as the commitment of the trustee board ,particularly Mark Anderson who project managed the roof project, and just wish to reach out and thank him for his commitment to 8th Worthing as he steps down as Chairman in July.
Moving into 2023 the 95th Anniversary celebrations at 8th Worthing started. This began with the Swimming Gala in February at Lancing College. Thank you to Sam Fullman for planning, organising and running the activity which was attended by all sections from Beavers to Explorers and allowed for healthy competition between Port and Starboard with Starboard coming out as Winners!
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Group Scout Leader
On 31st March 2023 we had 217 young people across the 7 sections, 40 Adults delivering the program and 25 young leaders in sections. This was supplemented by a number of regular parent helpers, without whom some sections would not have been able to operate. As GSL I want to express my thanks and gratitude for your commitment on a weekly basis to ensure a diverse programme for the members. Volunteering is incredibly rewarding and benefcial to young people and the wider community in Worthing.
Without volunteers we cannot continue with the positive outcomes achieved at 8th Worthing. As a group we beneft from outstanding facilities and equipment and a range of Leaders with a number of skills and knowledge. Moving forward there will be a series of changes to allow all parents to support the long-term development of 8th Worthing as we move towards the 100th anniversary in 2028.
Also, this year, we say goodbye to a team of volunteers that have supported the group for several years with the maintenance and distribution of group kit. The Bosun Team, on behalf of all the Leaders and Trustees at 8th Worthing, a massive thank you for your commitment and support.
Lastly, I want to thank the 3 other members of the GSL Team at 8th Worthing, Paul Chaplain continues his commitment to provide digital support across the wider group as well as continuing to support the wider treasurer’s team and helping with guidance linked to accounting questions, as well as organising the DofE expeditions for the Bronze groups. Kevin Lawrence has continued to support all sections across 8th Worthing with the planning of and running camps, water activity days and the Duke of Edinburgh programme at 8th Worthing. Harry Rippon joined the GSL team in the last year, supporting the development of Young Leaders in 8th Worthing and the development of the Duke of Edinburgh programme to provide members with skills for life.
Mark Mears, Group Scout Leader
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Chairman’s report
Introduction
After 11 years as a Trustee of 8th Worthing, two as the Group Chair, I formally notifed the Trustees in February that I would be stepping down from all 8th Worthing activities at the next AGM. The Group needs to evolve and continue to develop to meet the changing needs of today’s young people and remain ft for the 100th Anniversary and beyond! To do that it requires new ideas, fresh approaches and young talent which I’m confdent the four recently appointed Trustees will provide.
The decision to “step down” was not taken lightly and was made recognising the points above, some health challenges within my family and the need to simplify my family life a little.
Ironically, as I step away, the role of the Chair and Trustees will change under The Scout Transformation Programme. It will become more aligned to the governance activities seen in the charity sector, rather than being the “hands-on” fxers for everything from the roof to the drains.
The 8th Worthing Team
Sadly in September, once again, we lost a dear Scouting friend – Deirdre Green (Akela) who had been with 8th Worthing for over 25 years and made a huge impact to the Group alongside her husband Jim. To pay our respects and remember her loyal service we have purchased and named a bell tent “Deirdre” in her honour and this has already been put to good use at the 95th anniversary camp.
On a happier note, I would like to thank all of the 8th Worthing team (uniformed and non-uniformed) that put in their time and effort to make the 8th so successful. Without the dedication of the leaders and help from others, the Group simply wouldn’t function and the weekly fun and development for over 200 young people would not be possible.
I’d like to thank our GSL Mark Mears for all his hard work, particularly with the 95th anniversary camp which was an amazing success and for putting up with my endless questions and challenges around risk assessments, training, costs...
I also wish to thank the Trustee Board for their invaluable support and contribution to the overall governance and strategy of the Group. I believe we had made some really good progress across a range of subjects but there is still much more to be done by my successor.
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Chairman’s report cont’
Finances
As can be seen by the report, we remain in good shape fnancially, with adequate reserves even after completing our biggest capital project for 40 years, the Roof Replacement Project, at a cost of £66,000.
The Group Treasurer, Robert Tennent, who was only appointed after the last AGM has made a signifcant contribution to the Group whilst working with myself, the other Trustees and of course the Leaders. Items of note include:
Improving the fnancial controls across the entire Group
Producing and obtaining sign-off for a detailed annual budget
Moving funds to an account that earns higher interest
Continuing to do his meticulous Gift Aid record keeping which generates around £5,000 income each year.
Development Plan
It is important that the Group Development Plan, which so many stakeholders contributed to, is maintained and refreshed as it will help the Group move forward in a structured way. This is particularly relevant for the prioritisation and planning of future investments in the replacement of HQ infrastructure and of course the minibus.
Finally, I wish to thank you all for the trust in letting me take the helm of what I believe to be one of the biggest but certainly the best Sea Scout Group in England. It has been a pleasure working with you all and I wish 8th Worthing continued success and a safe, happy and healthy 2022/23.
Mark Anderson
June 2023
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Treasurers’ report
Below are the Group accounts for the year ended 31st March 2023. They have been audited this year by an independent accountant, Mr Allan Gee. They represent the accounts for the Group and sections combined. Explorers are shown separately, as they are a District provision and therefore also included in the Worthing District accounts.
The Group remains in good fnancial shape with the Group bank balance being £60,121 at year-end. This is substantially less than the balance this time last year of £92,396, however the Roof Replacement Project accounts for a lot of this, using reserves of £47,289 (the overall cost of the project was £66,289 but this was partly offset by an insurance contribution of £19,000). Without the Roof Replacement Project the Group made a surplus of £15,014.
This surplus was mainly due to a contribution from Worthing District of £11,110 following the disposal of the former Scout building in Anglesea Street, Worthing. Other areas to note are income of £1,024 Giftaid greater than expected, and expenditure less than expected on the Minibus, Boats & Equipment repairs, and Fundraising.
Next fnancial year, 2023/24, the Trustees have agreed an operational budget that includes upgrades to HQ’s heating and lighting that will be partly funded by Reserves (although it should be noted that no formal quotes have yet been received). The budget vs. actual spend is managed monthly and scrutinised at each Trustee Board meeting to ensure we stay fnancially stable, and to ensure that we deliver against our Development Plan.
Robert Tennent
How is your monthly £15 Membership Fees spent?
The following Pie chart shows how your monthly membership fees are distributed throughout the Scouting organisation.
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www.8thworthlng.or8.uVreport-2023 Group Accounts 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group (Charity No. 279339) •nA Aat• For the ear from All amounls in £s 1st April 2022 31st March 2023 Receipts 2022123 2021122 Membershi subscri ons Subscn ions from Sections Subscri ions idon lo District Xi.186 .11.091 19,095 26,844 -10.221 1&623 Sub totsl Grants Cowd fanl from Worthin 41h Worthin Borou h Council 11.110 Sub tolal Fundraisin 8¥8nts I Amazon Smile 49 51 51 Sub iotsl Scout hul incorne Hire of tr#Jildin 125 115 Sub totsl Inveslment income Bank interest 95 Sub iotal Other Income 2023 Grou Carn Donations Grft Ajd Insurance Conlnbution Future Year 1,916 7,524 19,000 6,508 R¢)0 Sub iotal Total Income 31514 Asset and investh)ent sales, et Tolal Receipts 59,033 31514 8thworthing.ory.ukfJoin
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Scouts 8th Worthing Sea Scouts
www.8thworthlng.or8.uVreport-2023 Group Accounts 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group (Charity No. 279339) IAt anA AA+a For the •ar from 1st Aprll 2022 To 31st March 2023 Payments 2022123 2021122 CharitablÈ Ptt ments Youth Pio ratnffle & A¢tivitie$ contnit10n lo cam osls Cutrenl Year Licences. Peimrts & M&mbeishi H3rdshi rrnls Minibus Fuel Mile2 e Pa ments from Seelion$ InsuTantÈ SeM¢e & MOT Tax & Peimrts Irs & Other cost5 minitrS Hire addrtional minitsJses then re uired Totsl Minibus 3.923 345 150 376 1.623 -1 554 960 679 360 79 1.834 3,981 373 -255 1.051 1,369 144 ?,683 Scoutln Gas Boiiles NÈWE ment Irs&Re acetnent5 Tolal Scouting Equipmenl ment 488 664 489 881 87 Boats & Trailers Insurance Irs&Re 1.089 acements 275 275 Total Boats & Traile Sub total 11.152 1,249 1.191 Adult $ Uniforms HQ Costs Cleanin Eletiricit Gas & Water Insurance Lease & Rènt Mainlenance PuTcha58s Refv5e Safel Checks rt and traini 570 792 1.s08 1.674 2.810 1.345 1.215 1.430 646 3.017 759 942 48 421 177 9,185 Totsl HQ Costs 6,75T IT Consumables Software T81è on85 & Intemèt 181 106 651 931 11162 314 869 1.1B3 Total HQ Costs Sub total Other Expenses AGM CÈrtthc3tes & Namè Bad Grfts Ès 137 255 21 705 Sub total Toral Expendnure Ass•t and inv•stm•nt purchas•s, •tc. Nèw Scoui Hul Roof 66,289 Total Payments 13J95 Ner of receiptsl(payments) Cash funds last y•ar •nd Cash funds this yearend a1275 17519
Skil
Z Z>uts 92.396 74,818 121 tsth Worthing Sea Scouts
www.8thworthlng.or8.uVreport-2023 Group Accounts 8th Worthing Sea Scout Group (Charity No. 279339) For th• ear from 1st April 2022 31st March 2023 Statement of Assets and Liabilities at the end of the year 31st Mar 2023 31st Mar 2022 Cash funds Bank curienl account Bank swn s account 1 Bank s 5 account 2 CashlFloals reasureis Account Bus 8ank Instant 32Da Notice Account 15.451 34.659 10,011 14.346 78.051 Tal ethsh funds ree bances wth recews an& pa nts account) ok ok Other monetsry assets Sub iLal Investm•nt ass•ts Sub total Non monetary assets for Charity's own use Land & buildin 31 Insured value Minibus Boats & Traileis Scoutin Other 335.IMI 13,025 34,320 74.0% 335.1)1)O 15,IHXI J4,320 14.0% at Insured value enl at Insufed value Sub iothl Liabilities Group Cam 2023 Sub trrtal Total n•t ass•ts 12 8thworthing.ory.ukfJoin
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www.8thworthlng.or8.uVreport-2023 Section accounts 2022Q023 PORT STARBOARO PORT BEAVERS BEAVERS CUBS STARBOARD CUBS PORT SCOUTS STARBOARD SCOUTS ALL SECTIONS OSPREY ESU RECEIPTS Bank Inteie5t 40.LK) 40.+X+ Donation DOE E¥ent$ Events. Bewu5 Errts- Cub5 Events- Scouts Everfs. Exr4ws Meetings Meinbership Féés Pinnacle Ofiltr$ Unrfom soo 1,464.th) 56.00 1.606 00 -10 50 315.00 2.039 50 10150 371.00 3,645.9) 4,521.34 17,423.83 1.975.thJ 2.455.34 10.454 83 6.969 00 7,300.52 3.615 00 3500 4.215.00 11287 23 17 4.622.00 4.992. 5.805.00 18.00 5.415.00 115.98 28,664.00 385A5 23.17 6,822.1 106.19 PAYMENTS Aclfvily Equiprrenl AdNMn 151.78 746.33 4490 943.01 17.49 60.00 265 63 21.60 77A9 8adges 88nk Feos Campng Equipnnl Events. Beams E¥errts- Cub5 346 16 20.00 BSO.72 $3B.29 212 $8 26.39 2,213.38 67.99 24.16 4,08111 5,182.66 18,094A7 125.05 24.18 2.15142 1.929 79 10150 2.$04.42 2.S76.74 Events- Stouts E¥ents. Exr4ws DOE Meetings- B•a4rs Meetings- Cubs Meetings- Seojts Meeiing$- Exrlorers Membership Fees lo Group Pinnacle Older5 12.149 29 5.94S IB 8,299.85 1,860.00 3500 288.37 323.37 76.81 175.36 252.11 1,092.30 S4S 24 547 06 1,471.08 5,962.YJ 215.91 3.300 00 3254 3.500 00 18120 3043 3.724 50 17.12 4.200.fKI 68.59 5,186 50 73.76 4.312 50 11427 24,22J.9) 487A8 30A3 Unrfom ACCOLINT BALANCES Closing Balance5 65131 1.419 07 1.719.90 828.61 1,019.82 2.726 14 8.367A5 662.78 SUMMARY A¢¢outhi balance blfv Tol81 Recei#s Total Paymgnl$ Nel income 87177 5.30150 5.518 96 -217 46 1.009 48 6.807 04 6.397 45 409 59 2.435 47 6.833 7.Y9.53 -715.57 1.597 43 7,553 98 8.322.80 -768.62 3.044 01 16,277 B3 18,302 02 -2,024.19 1.424 04 12.504 98 11,20288 1.302 10 10.J8220 55,07919 57,09J.64 ,014.35 2,904.52 15,692.71 17,9J4A5 ,241.74 Cashbook anon Accoutht balan¢6 ¢ld 651.31 1.419.07 1,719. 828.61 1,019.82 2,726.14 8,367.85 662.78 Ch¢cked bYGrOPTrta$Urer un-23 Caun-23 OkJun-2J un.23 o&Jn-23 IOJun-23 21Jun-23 8thworthing.ory.ukfJoin
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www.8thworthlng.or8.uVreport-2023 Ind•p•nd•nt Exwnlmrfs R•port to th• Trusts•s of Ath Vlorthlr4 (S•a Sc¢) Gr(P ScArt COUMII I report to ihè Trustees on my eumlnailon of the a<¢ounts of theÉt' 4Vorthln8 (Sea Sknutl Group for the year ¢0¢¢¢ Ll.., .MIroh_2. R•5ponsibilities and ba515 of repDrt A5 Ihe Cbarity Trts5tees of Worthir8 (Seè Stttyutl Group you arE responsible for ihe preparalkjn of the accounts ip acco(dance with lhe requirements ol ihe Charftles Act 2011 {Thé Act-): I report in respert of my emirtIon of the W.,: Worthing {Sea 0) Group account5 urried out under SelOn 145 of the 2011 Act and In carrylne out my examinatlon. I have folkwed èll applicablè Dlredions 8lveniby ihe_Cb•rlty Q)mmlss&on under Sethon 1451511b) of ihe Aci. Independert Examine¢5 Ststement hwie completed myexarninatboTr] Icèn (onhrm that no materiol matter5. ha p)me lo.ffvy attenon In connecmon wlth the examlnatlon 8k¥ing to belle¥e thai in anymatet441 respect. IIL IAccounts'f records not kept in respect of the Worthln8 Isea Scout) Grou_p as loqu1r by Sectlon 130 of the Act,. or 12.. LThe accountsdo not accord wlth those reco$. 'I'have no CO¢M$ and have come across rKI other matters In conTrecilon with ihe eumlnatlon to which attCnt5on sh¢ul¢ be dfdwn ih15 TewJrl ID. order Lo enable a pigpei.uTrdersiandiD8 of ,the accounts to be reachEd. Sn•d: Plamè: Allan Geé Relevant yofessl(bnal qualHb¢a¢lofilm¢mlJ¢fshlp ol woles$knl bodl¢s (If èny). FCCA ,AddreM: 9 Water*YKks Cottages HS118•m Lane. Wortbln8 BN14 9QQ 8thworthing.ory.ukfJoin
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Port Beavers
We started off the summer term with an evening of Junk Modelling which proved a very fun evening, and then finished off the Faith Badge (which we’d started last term), The Goble Issues was the next badge activity badge which looked at clean water, fairtrade and endangered animals. We went on a trip to Arundel Wetlands Trust which included a boat ride, mini beast hunting and pond dipping. After a 2-year break (due to a certain virus!!) we had a fun day back at Go Beavers at Blacklands Farm, with the young people having fun doing amongst other thing grass sledging and crafting.
After Half Term our Young Leaders ran a Health and Fitness evening, we did the cyclist badge, we also went rockpooling and did a nature trail at Honeysuckle Lane, and some of our young people had a fun time on the water at Southwater Park. In July we had a Sleepover at the Scout Headquarters and as it was so hot we kept cool by playing water games and other fun activities. Our final evening before the summer break we had a games evening which involved parents, water, and food.
In the Autumn term the Beavers did their, safety, experiment, and creative badges. We visited the Windmill at High Salvington and had a night walk along the beach. In October we had our annual sleepover at the HQ and took the children to Flying Fortress at Ford Airfield. They had a brilliant time which was a great success. We went to the panto with Starboard Beavers to see Jack and the Beanstalk and finished the term off with a Christmas Party.
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Port Beavers cont.
For the Spring term 2023 the Beavers did their space activity and disability badges, (we had a visitor to help us with the Disability Badge.) We visited Worthing library, Laser Quest at Out of Bounds at Rustington and finished off the term with our Young Leaders running the evening, which was a great success (Dance Party, we also got Parents joining in before they took their child home). In total we gave out approximately 230 badges for which all the children worked hard for, and 3 gained their Chief Scout Bronze Awards before leaving and going on to Cubs, they were Oliver Kirby, Anisa Salihi, and Rowan Austin Metcalf.
I would like to give special thanks to my Colony Assistants Emma Wallace, Mel Doyle, and Alex Owen for all their invaluable help and support. I would also like to thank all my Young Leaders (those who are still with us and those who have moved on) for all the assistance they give to the Colony.
Louise Howarth (Beaver Scout Leader).
Email: louise.howarth@8thworthing.org.uk
Website: www.8thworthing.org.uk
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Starboard Beavers
Starboard Beavers has been as popular this year as it has ever been. Our numbers are at Maximum and our joining list is full to bursting with children wanting to join us at beavers. This year we have managed to gain 12 bronze awards, 84 challenge badges, 186 activity badges and a magnificent 76 staged badges.
We started our year in April with a visit from a circus workshop which the beavers all enjoyed and they learnt some new skills.
We attended GOBEAVERS 22 at Blacklands farm-the weather was great and lots of fun earning badgework while enjoying themselves.
We made the most of the light nights and good weather and held our usual activity of a crabbing night on Worthing beach peering under rocks for any unsuspecting crabs. We also held our walk up onto Cissbury blowing bubbles at the top much to the delight of other walkers up there.
In July the Beavers had the fantastic opportunity of going to Southwater and having activities out on the water kayaking The weather was fantastic and I had lots of messages from parents saying how much their Beaver enjoyed the activity. Many Many thanks to all leaders from all sections who made this possible for our Beaver scouts.
As is tradition we held our water gun/super soaker night at the end of the summer term and great fun was had by all with the Beavers enjoying soaking us leaders and young leaders and of course each other.
In September we covered the International badge over two nights.
We also attended the Remembrance Day service at the town hall. The beavers were exemplary in their behaviour throughout the service.
We held a torch walk to tarring park in November and the beavers played on the equipment in the dark with their torches-great fun for them.
In December we joined up with Port Beavers and went to watch the Pantomime. Oh yes we did!
On to the Spring term where we covered the book reader badge.
In March we went to Clip and Climb in Rustington and the Beavers were like little mountain goats using the equipment!
At the end each term we hold a badge presentation evening where parents are encouraged to stay for the night to watch their child’s badge presentation and then join in with the rest of the evening. Always nice to see all parents and beavers together.
Within our programme we have covered the Explorer badge, International badge, Book reader badge, Safety badge, Cooks badge, Nautical skills, Paddlesports, Hikes and of course covered the Challenge Badges which are needed to achieve our highest badge available within Beavers the Chief Scout Bronze award.
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Starboard Beavers cont.
None of our activities where we take the beavers out of the hall would be possible without the support of our parents. They really are amazing at responding when I request parents help. They put up with my endless messaging them reminding them of things and coaxing them to ask their child to complete badgework at home!
We have had an amazing team of young leaders join us to help our leadership team since September. They are totally self motivated now and are a huge asset to our leadership team.
Due to work commitments Raine (Squirrel) my ABSL has been unable to attend beavers but we hope to have her back soon.
Fox (Stephen) has been my rock and has been there for me throughout this year.
We are really looking forward to celebrating our 95th Anniversary as we are joining in with the camp later on this year.
So that’s the Starboard beavers report and personally I look forward to another year of running our beaver colony and hopefully “Making a difference” to these children’s lives.
As always
Fun and Friends
Otter
Fiona
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Port and Starboard Cubs
Well, that year went quick!
Leading on from last August's weeklong, joint summer camp, we were then still Midship, and Starboard Cubs.
We had a great week. Both packs staying for 3 nights each. The cubs enjoyed all
the activities we, as a team planned and ran. Air Riffle shooting, run at the range by Kevin Lawrence (Wontolla)one of our AGSL who was also lead on camp ably assisting me, we have run many camps together over the years. Thank you, Kev, for all your support. Kevins wonderful mum Val (Raksha)was our camp cook, as usual
the food was moreish and plentiful and certainly kept us all going through the week. Thank you so much Val.
Andy Blackmore (Bagheera) after he had put up his tent? House! Was also a valued leader and was always on hand. Running orienteering and map reading. He stayed all week as well. Thank you, Andy, for all your help.
James Keys (Kotick) again a valued assistant who ran and assisted whatever was
needed all week. Thank you, James.
Jennah Costan (Jacala)our leader in Training at Port stayed all week and was a vital member of our team. She continues to train and study for her fantastic job whilst helping at cubs and continuing her leader training and helping at Explorers D of E. Jacala was also Invested at our fun filled campfire night. Thank you so much for all your support.
Our parent helpers went over and above the call of duty with various things over the 2 halves of the week, Siobhan Salihi, Ross Peters, Jem Martin, thank you for all your help. You all were a very valuable asset and enhanced our team greatly. Laura Trebble also is now helping on a regular basis and was a very valuable member of our Camp team and an asset to Starboard.
Our fantastic young leaders! When they did get up in the morning after the occasional cubs armed with saucepans and wooden spoons for musical effect, outside their tents! And actual music speakers one morning! They were so helpful and the cubs love having younger people to look up to and learn from. Both gaining valuable experience and knowledge.
Megan, Becca, Courtney, Michael, Bettie-Rose you are all amazing and thank you so much for all you did and do!
Activities on camp were Air Riffles, Shelter building, Map reading, orienteering, Open fire cooking (in the rain) crate stacking, some scared of heights achieved huge heights! Young leaders ran an evening quiz, we decorated our bunting for the tents, scavenger hunt, wide games climbing wall! Not necessarily in that order!
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Port and Starboard Cubs cont.
Archery run by our amazing Jackson Howard, I'm proud to say he was a cub with us and went through 8th to now working as a skills instructor. He travels all around teaching young people outdoor skills, riffles and archery but always takes time to come and help 8th with our Pursuits. What an accomplished young man. Thank you, Jackson.
Skills for Life.
Hairy (Nick) and Deidre, we miss you, may you rest in peace in your own heavenly camp sites.
Once recovered from Camp, the year continues into September. We now are officially back to being Port Cubs to keep in line with the other sections.
Our leaders at Port are, Jennah and James our young leaders are Megan Mears, Becca Franks, Jamie Bunce, Ben Haste and our newest recruit is Noah Cloake. Thank you everyone.
Starboard leaders are, Mark Mears, Andy Blackmore. Laura Trebble, Alex Loveridge. Young Leaders are Michael Edwards, Robin Brown, Benjamin Evans Freddie Dingwall.
I have stayed with Port cubs and stepped away from Starboard, Mark Mears now steers Starboard.
We have covered through the past year, badge work in Map reading,
we have been to the fire station to learn about safety in the home and how the Brigade works, fantastic that the brigade finds the time to have us at the fire station. We sent a thank you card and chocolates!
Teambuilding, Craft nights, a joint Christmas Starboard, Port party, we celebrated Chinese New Year learning all about different traditions, a representative from the Air Ambulance came in to tell us all about their charity, we had Police representatives come in with a police car to give us valuable and insightful information on their work, more cards and chocolates given as a thank you. We ate pancakes! Yum. Valuable First aid badges were covered, crafts. Easter egg hunt at the Compound, an amazing space we book from the Guide association. Coronation cookie cooking and pin the crown on the Monarch! Information meeting for our Group camp, a sausage sizzle and much more. All planned by us each week, information sent out, emails answered etc etc. Last but by no means least our parent helpers, those that help regularly and when called on, we couldn't run the night without you! There is simply not enough of us! We must meet child to adult ratios, or we must cancel the meeting so thank you for always stepping up, thank you for the galley duties and all you do! It doesn’t go unnoticed and is very much appreciated.
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Port and Starboard Cubs cont.
So, a very BIG THANK YOU to everyone who is or has been involved in the continuation of Port and Starboard Cubs. And of course, our Cubs, present past and future. The future is in Scouting and it's yours to use to its best effect.
Jayne Gathergood CSL Port (Starboard) Cubs
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Port Scouts
The Year commenced with our summer rotations on the water; Kayaking and Paddleboarding, Fire skills, Rife Shooting, Archery, Camp cooking, Tent Pitching and a Murder Mystery Treasure Hunt around Worthing Town.
In July we celebrated James Flint and Andy Gilham being awarded their prestigious Woodbeads for successful completion of their Leadership Training.
August saw us join with Starboard Scouts in addition with Paul and Kevin to run a joint Summer Camp on the banks of the River Thames in Marlow. This was a week of varied activities on land and water. Windsurfng, Sailing, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Pulling, Dragon Boat Racing, A Weir Trip, Snowboarding, Snow doughnut rides, Axe and Saw Skills, Campfre Songs, Lazer Tag, Giant Swing, Jacobs Ladder, Water rescues, Pioneering in addition to Games and Crafts.
Lots of laughter and new friendship formed. Everyone had a great week.
Autumn term began with a walk along the beach and a catch up roasting marshmallows around the campfre at the compound followed by Hikes around Lancing Ring, Cissbury Ring Patrol Leaders Game Nights, A cultural trip to Africa with our taste buds and an introduction to local music.
Our eldest scouts embarked on their expedition camp at Small Dole enabling 7 scouts to earn their Chief Scout Gold Award!
Following half term we had Wide Games, Remembrance Parade, Board Game evenings, Knot tying and lashings used for Pioneering, Challenge nights, Semaphore Hangman, Decoding skills, Morse Code Jokes ending with a trip to Worthing’s Ice Skating Rink and a Christmas Party with DJ Evans.
Spring term was just as busy starting with our Young Leader Sam Mears as Quiz Master, challenging the scouts general knowledge. We headed to the other side of the Globe to celebrate Chinese New Year, had the opportunity to play Firefghters at Worthing Fire Station, Movie nights with popcorn and treats, More Patrol Leaders Game nights, Pancake tossing, First Aid Skills, we became Directors editing our very own stop motion animation flms using our Warhammer fgures and set designs, learned how to sew on our badges and maintain our uniform, ending the term with a Climbing session at Out of Bounds.
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Port Scouts cont.
A total of 465 badges were awarded to our troop of which 36 were for Time on the Water, 25 for Nautical Skills, 24 for Paddle Sports, 24 for Pulling, and 24 for Dragon Boating. 7 Chief Scout Gold Awards achieved. Thanks to the RN funding, James Flint obtained his BCU Paddlesports Leadership Award and RYA Safety boat Operator Qualifcation. Clare-Louise Wright and Yvonne Barr obtained their Powerboat Level 2 Qualifcations. These qualifcations will help 8th Worthing to continue to offer our young people opportunities on the water.
One of our young leaders Arden Flint managed to obtain his Paddlesports Instructor Qualifcation being the frst Young Person in 8th Worthing to be issued a Scouting Adventurous Activity Permit since the scheme began.
Best of all, we have had lots of fun, adventure and laughter.
James Flint
Port Scout Leader
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Osprey Explorer Unit
At the end of March this year, we had 43 invested Explorers. We continue to be one of the biggest Explorer Units in the UK. Osprey ESU continue in partnership with 8[th] Worthing and we appreciate the mutual benefits that being a part of the group bring. We have 24 members of the unit serving as Young Leaders within the group.
Core Programme
The Unit’s core program contains two main elements:
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The Chief Scouts (CS) Awards
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Nautical Skills / Water Activities
Also central to the programme is the DofE Award:
Bronze –
Silver –
Platinum Award Diamond Award
Gold – Queens Scout Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of activities for anyone aged 14-25. Founded by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in 1956, there are 3 progressive levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. At each level participants undertake activities in 4 Sections:
Volunteering – undertaking service to individuals or the community Physical – improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness activities
Skills – developing practical and social skills and personal interests
Expedition – planning, training for and completing an adventurous journey in the UK or abroad
Gold programme participants must also do an additional 5th Residential section which involves staying and working away from home doing a shared activity.
The DofE offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to learn about commitment, responsibility and independence. Gaining any one of the 3 levels of the DofE Award is a huge achievement. We have had a successful year with these awards, seeing Osprey Explorers achieve:
19 x Bronze Awards – Ronan Gilham, Ben Smith, Logan Wheatley, Imogen Bates, Hannah Crabb, Arden Flint, Ronan Gilham, Ben Haste, Thea Loxham, Megan Mears, Ben Smith, Courtney Trebble, Sudhish Amarasinghe, Robin Brown, Leven Fullman, Ollie Thorpe, Will Griffiths, Kieran Doyle, Hayden Jackson.
4 x Silver Awards – Josh Shanley, Jamie Bunce, Michael Edwards, Javier Marino.
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Osprey Explorer Unit cont.
We currently have 20 Explorer’s working towards their Bronze award, 12 towards their Silver and 3 towards their Gold.
As stated above, many of our participants carry out their Young Leader Training through Explorers and help with various sections in the Group to complete the Volunteering Section of their Award. Other activities include coaching sports such as football, swimming and netball, the Durrington Community Cycle Project, helping out at the library, young leading for Girlguiding and teaching robotics.
The Physical Recreation section always includes a wide range of activities. At Bronze level, this year has included badminton, football, dog walking, home workouts, golf, watersports, cycling, running, netball, triathlons, swimming, skateboarding, basketball, martial arts, hiking, trampolining, dance and gym work. At Silver we’ve had hiking, gym exercise, kung fu, ice skating, running, football, netball and badminton. At Gold we’ve had hiking.
The Skills section is always interesting as the Explorers show what a wide variety of skills they have and what really interests them. At Bronze these include learning to a play various instruments such as guitar, trumpet, drums, piano, clarinet and keyboard, reading, learning various languages such as German and French, painting / drawing, sculpting, performing arts, windsurfing theory, 3D modelling, first aid, animal care, snooker / pool, photography, DIY and cooking. At Silver these include cooking, painting, learning sign language, learning a foreign language, animal care, improving their playing of various instruments such as trombone and piano, script writing, watersports skills, chess and model making. At Gold these include DIY. We held successful expeditions across Bronze and Silver levels this year;
The Bronze qualifier took place in July on one of the hottest weekends of the year, seeing adjustments made to ensure the safety of all 10 members that took part. All 10 participants passed so well done all!
The Silver qualifier took place in October on arguably one of the wettest weekends of the year (traditional for Osprey) with 7 members taking part and passing! Well done to you too.
I would like to say a huge thank you to all the Leaders who have helped our Explorers to achieve these awards – Paul Chaplain (Bronze & Silver Mentor / Bronze Expedition Leader), Andrew Shakespeare (Silver Expedition Leader), Kev Lawrence (Gold Mentor / Gold Expedition Leader), Steve Briscoe (Expedition Assessor), Lee Martin (Bronze Mentor / Expedition Assistant), Ben Rees (Expedition Assistant), Bryn Clements (Expedition Assistant), Jackson Howard (Expedition Assistant), Sam Rippon (Expedition
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Osprey Explorer Unit cont.
Assistant), James Keys (Expedition Assistant), Jennah Costan (Expedition Assistant), Dan Corcoran (Expedition Assistant), Rick Worsfold (Bronze Mentor), Lucy Poole (Bronze Mentor) and any others that have either acted as an Assessor or welcomed our Young Leaders into their Leadership teams.
Camps
The highlight of every year is our grand finale of the Scouting year programme
(September – August), Summer Camp. This year, 23 Explorers and 8 Leaders headed to Longridge in Marlow to camp alongside the River Thames and take part in various activities such as white-
water rafting, a waterpark, shooting, sailing, Hawaiian party, weir trips, powerboating and many, many more. A big thank you to all the Explorers who attended for making it so fun, the usual faces who attended: Paul, Kev, Lee, Rick, Lucy and
also our extra helpers, Val Lawrence for taking care of all things cooking related and Steve Briscoe who offered a much needed extra pair of hands and years of knowledge and experience. Bring on 2023 in Switzerland!
In April, Starboard Scouts organised and delivered an Expedition Challenge Camp for their oldest Scouts (including some ex-Scouts who were members of Osprey by this point) to help them achieve their Chief Scout Gold Award. Thank you to Sam, Harvey and the team.
In February, Worthing Scouts hosted an outdoor Bivvy Camp for all Explorers to sleep outside overnight, with nothing but a bivvy and a sleeping bag to keep them warm. Well done to the 3 Explorers who survived the -1 degree temperatures and a big thank you to Al (Acting District Explorer Scout Commissioner) for organising the event and Lee for leading the Osprey contingent.
In March, all Explorers attending Kandersteg 2023 were invited to attend a training weekend to get to know the other Explorers and Leaders going on the trip. 13 members of Osprey took part alongside 6 8[th] Worthing Scouts on hikes, campfires and found out more about the trip so thank you to those who attended. Thank you to Al (Acting District Explorer Scout Commissioner) for organising the camp as well as Kev and Rick for supporting the Osprey contingent.
Programme
In addition to the core activities, we have enjoyed a varied balanced programme this year and these are some of the things we have done:
Adventure – DofE Theory, Star Gazing, Ice Skating, eKarting, Bonfire Night, Night Hike, Wide Games, Beach Stroll, Boating BBQ, Bouldering, Kayaking
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Osprey Explorer Unit cont.
International – On The Run
Community – Rick Paul’s Drag Race, Forensic Psychology, Cinema Trip, District Swimming / BBQ
Teambuilding – LaserZone, Murder Mystery, Create Your Own Mini Golf, Basketball, Castaway Cooking, Osprey Cup
Life Skills – First Aid
Youth Shaped Scouting – Programme Planning, Debate Evening
Miscellaneous – The Traitors, Xmas Party, Drama With Rick, Halloween Party
Events
The Worthing Gang Show returned in 2022 and 8[th] Worthing had 4 members in the cast, 2 of which were Osprey Explorers. Not only that, 2 other members of the cast joined Osprey shortly afterwards. In the production team, Harry (ESL) held the role of Front of Curtain Director and Lucy (AESL) was Assistant Choreographer. In addition, Pet Bladen (ex-Osprey AESL) and Rick (AESL) helped out backstage for the Friday and Saturday shows. Pet was a Dresser and Rick was Front of House. Charlotte Walker, Occasional Helper for Port Scouts, was in charge of Props.
To show their support, 8[th] Worthing bought 52 tickets for the Friday night. 4 Explorers came with Paul and Harry to watch from the audience.
In April, 8[th] Worthing came together for St Georges Day to renew their promise. Representatives from every section walked from Marine Crescent to Worthing Pier. Thank you to the 12 Explorers and their families for joining us.
8[th] Worthing held their Celebration of Success, attached to their AGM, in July for the first-time face to face since the pandemic. It was a good occasion to honour the achievements of the Unit and publicise our good news stories to other members and families of the Group. Thank you to the 15 Explorers and their families who came along to show their support and the Trustees for organising.
In September, 6 Explorers headed to Northampton Active to kayak down the UK’s first pumped artificial whitewater course. Three pumps control the discharge of water down the 300-metre white water course to enable groups to enhance and improve their skills. Thank you to Paul and Kev for organising and delivering.
In preparation for next year’s Summer Camp to Switzerland, Worthing Scouts ran a
preparation day for Young People and Adults to get to know each other, talk about the trip and answer any questions ahead of the signup day. Thank you to Mike Hudgell for organising and the Osprey Explorers and Leaders who attended.
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Osprey Explorer Unit cont.
In October, 8 Explorers went on a kayaking / canoeing expedition down the River Medway in Kent. The trip involved an 8-mile paddle from Tonbridge to Yalding with 6 weirs along the way, all with purpose-built canoe passes. Thank you to Paul and Kev for running it and Lee and James Flint for assisting.
On Sunday 13[th] November, 8[th] Worthing and Osprey Explorers attended the Worthing Remembrance Parade with 25 Explorers and 5 Leaders giving a very good representation of Osprey. Thank you to all for both looking and acting the part.
Phoenix ESU organised a District Explorer Quiz for all Units so thank you to them for running it and Lee, Rick and all the attendees.
To celebrate 95 years of 8[th] Worthing, a group swimming gala was hosted at Lancing College with a variety of races across all sections of the group. Thank you to Sam Fullman for organising the event and to all the Explorers who either took part in races or helped run the races for younger sections. You were all instrumental in the delivery of this event so thank you. A massive well done on top to Chloe and Seb who both achieved medals for their performances in the race.
Leadership Team
Welcome to Tavis Stringer, the newest addition to the Osprey team. Tavis was a Leader with 6[th] Worthing prior to their closure, with experience as an Assistant Leader for Cubs and Scouts. Tavis also joined already equipped with an archery permit so I’m sure we’ll see him put that to good use.
Lastly, thank you to the entire leadership team for making this year possible: Paul Chaplain, Kev Lawrence, Lee Martin, Rick Worsfold, Lucy Poole and Tavis Stringer. Thank you to all 8[th] Worthing Section Leaders and their teams for their support of the Young Leader programme and to all our Explorers and their families for being a part of the adventure.
Looking forward to what the next 12 months has to offer for Osprey Explorer Unit!
Harry Rippon
Explorer Scout Leader
Osprey ESU
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