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2023-03-31-accounts

Ajax Sea Scout Group and Explorer Sea Scout Unit Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31[st] March 2023

CONTENTS

GROUP CHAIR’S REPORT ........................................................................................................................ 2 GROUP SCOUT LEADER’S REPORT ....................................................................................................... 6 BEAVER SCOUT COLONY ................................................................................................................... 10 CUB SCOUT PACK ............................................................................................................................... 11 SEA SCOUT TROOP ............................................................................................................................ 15 EXPLORER SEA SCOUT UNIT ............................................................................................................ 18 ABOUT 4TH THAMES DITTON 'AJAX' SEA SCOUTS ............................................................................ 21 TRUSTEES' REPORT ............................................................................................................................... 22 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT .................................................................................................. 25 FINANCIAL REPORT - YEAR ENDING 31 MARCH 2023 ....................................................................... 26 KEY CONTACTS ....................................................................................................................................... 31

Summer Camp 2023 – Cobnor Point, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex

GROUP CHAIR’S REPORT

As Group Chair, I coordinate Ajax's Group Executive Committee (GEC), which is the decision-making body responsible for the Group's facilities, equipment and finances. The GEC is also responsible for providing sufficient resources for the Group's Scouting activities e.g. by supporting the recruitment of adult volunteers and by fundraising.

Ajax Sea Scouts is a charity and the members of the GEC are its charity trustees. The GEC will be renamed the Group Trustee Board at our AGM on 1 Oct 2023 as we implement a Scout Association-wide initiative to improve transparency around roles and responsibilities.

I am delighted to provide context to the GEC's stewardship of the Group's facilities and equipment, and comment on the Group's fundraising activities and volunteering matters since our AGM on 31 Aug 2022. The Group's financial position, which is in good standing, is addressed in the Financial Report for the year ended 31 Mar 2023.

In brief:

These matters are discussed in further detail below.

Facilities

Ajax and Warspite Sea Scout Groups are negotiating a new long-term lease with our Landlord, Elmbridge Borough Council, to include:

Details of the proposed secure compound are set out in Elmbridge planning application 2022/0853, which was approved in Jun 2022. We have made substantive progress over the last 12 months in our negotiations with Elmbridge, which have recently concluded. The draft lease is now in agreed form, subject to (among other things) review and approval by Ajax trustees, by Warspite trustees and by the Scout Association Trust Corporation.

Once the new lease and other ancillary documents have been signed, Ajax will procure high security fencing and related works to construct the secure compound on behalf of both Groups. The completion of those construction works, expected by April 2024, will deliver enduring benefits to both Ajax and Warspite by significantly expanding the Groups' premises. Ajax's share of financial commitments to deliver the new lease and trailer park construction works is backed by a designated fund of £15,000, which is shown in the Group's accounts as at 31 Mar 2023. Many thanks to Ajax trustee Andrew Roberts who continues to lead this initiative on behalf of both Groups.

Facilities-related projects completed over the last 12 months include (1) safety-related upgrades of electrical wiring and the installation of commercial-grade fuse/distribution boxes within the WAC and workshop, (2) remedial works following a burst pipe over Christmas 2022, and (3) the installation of a defibrillator immediately outside our front door. Thank you to the Ajax family that generously donated funds covering the cost of providing a defibrillator at Ditton Reach.

On-going facilities-related projects include: (1) remedial works to address WAC roof and gutter leaks - investigation has revealed a need for significant investment to repair and replace roofing components that have failed or are near end-of-life, (2) an initiative to install and commission a new Fire Door from the Main Deck, and decommission the original Fire Door which exits from the Ajax Main Deck into the Warspiteowned compound, and (3) an initiative to improve frost protection within the WAC - potentially by installing and/or upgrading trace heating for water pipes.

GEC has identified two projects that are high priorities because of the significant benefits they will bring to the Group's Scouting programmes: (1) a project to install an upgraded fire alarm system which will openup the potential for sleepovers at the WAC, especially for the Beaver and Cub sections, and (2) a project to relocate and expand our storage space which, among other things, will deliver safe and accessible access to camp gear. Both projects are expensive (potentially ~£10k and ~£20k respectively) and we will likely need to seek 3rd party funding to supplement funds raised by Ajax.

Equipment

We have made significant investments in our fleet over the last 12 months. In March 2023, we took delivery of 9 new touring kayaks, representing a £10,000 investment, half of which was funded by a grant from the Royal Navy. The Explorers and Scouts have enjoyed using the new kayaks during Spring and Summer, including at Summer Camp at Cobnor Point, Chichester Harbour.

Ajax's fleet of 9 new touring kayaks added colour to the procession of Scout boats and crews marking Ajax's 75th Anniversary celebrations

During 2023, we also acquired one of the original batch of Home Counties gigs commissioned by Scout Groups i.e. a sister vessel to PYMBS. The Group's £5,000 investment covered the cost of acquisition and refurbishment to restore "Hercules" to serviceable condition. Hercules has been in use as a Scout gig on the Thames for over 60 years, and its acquisition will enable the Group to get more of our young people afloat developing key knowledge, skills, confidence and teamwork.

Elmbridge Mayor, Richard Williams, and his wife Agnieszka, the Mayoress, officiated at our boat launching ceremony for Hercules, one of the highlights of Ajax's 75th Anniversary celebrations

Over the last 12 months, GEC has also overseen: (1) a keel replacement for PYMBS, (2) engine repairs and electrical upgrades to return a water-damaged Connie West to service, and (3) the disposal of one of the Group's minibuses.

As Ajax looks to the future, we will need to update our strategy for the delivery of water activity programmes, including the role of facilities at Island Barn reservoir and Cobnor, and the mix, location, maintenance and (in due course) replacement of our fleet to support those programmes. The joint RYA Training Centre which Ajax and Warspite operate delivers valuable synergies for both Groups, and we intend to develop our strategy in coordination with Warspite.

Fundraising activities, Spring and Summer 2023

The investments that the Group has made in facilities and equipment over recent years has been possible because of the past fundraising efforts of Ajax parents and supporters, supplemented by financial support from benefactors and grant providers. Fundraising underpins the wide programme of Scouting activities that Ajax can offer young people, enabled by fit-for-purpose facilities and equipment.

We had a very successful fundraising season during Spring and Summer this year, raising in excess of £16,500, net of costs, across four events:

The success of the Esher May Fair relies on the efforts of Ajax parents and supporters

Congratulations and thank you to all of our supporters and volunteers who helped plan, coordinate and staff our fundraising events over the last 12 months. Thanks in particular to trustee Adrian Smith who led the Ajax team that delivered a fun and successful Esher May Fair 2023!

Volunteering matters

Ajax is entirely dependent on volunteers. Thanks indeed to the leaders, trustees, parents and others who have supported the Group over the last 12 months, whether through the delivery of Scouting activities, or through service as a trustee, or by helping make our fundraising events happen, or by supporting the Group in other ways. We truly value your support.

Thanks in particular to GSL Chris West and AGSL Peter Wadsworth for their leadership of the Group over the last year. And to Group Treasurer Peter Drysdale who has managed the Group's income, expenditure, cash position and financial records throughout the year. Thanks also to the leaders and assistant leaders for Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, who have done a fantastic job in delivering Section-specific programmes over the last year, despite being below-strength.

Unfortunately, our Section leadership teams remain understrength and we would welcome assistance from parents and volunteers who are able to commit time on a regular basis to support the on-going delivery of high quality activities for Autumn/Winter 2023 and into 2024. Please contact the relevant Section Leader if you are able to help or if you would like to know more.

I am keen to bring new parents onto the Group Trustee Board, so that the decisions we make continue to reflect the aspirations and needs of our families. Unfortunately, women are underrepresented on the Board and I would like to empower more of our women parents and supporters to help shape the Group as trustees. There is a mechanism to appoint trustees during the year - please drop me a line if you are interested or would like to know more.

Please look out for our periodic requests for volunteers. Over the coming year we will need help from parents and supporters with fundraising events, boat maintenance and "DIY" building maintenance.

Andy Davison Group Chair, Ajax Sea Scouts andy.davison@ajax.org.uk 07970 265921

GROUP SCOUT LEADER’S REPORT

Group Scout Leader Chris Callaghan-West writes:

Once again, we complete another jam-packed year full of Scouting activities and as I sit down to write my annual report, I find the task of having so many things to write about to be a welcome one.

After our last AGM the first event that followed as always in November was our Remembrance Day Parade to Gigg’s Hill Green in Thames Ditton, which we share with The Dittons Scout Group. This year saw a record number of people joining us and we’re now starting to see young representatives from local schools and other youth organisations joining us at the war memorial for our service.

At Christmas we had our carol evening with plenty of mince pies - certainly an event our local residents enjoy, especially those who come over from the retirement home next door.

I was very pleased to have been invited along to the Cubs weekend away in London. We had great fun exploring HMS Belfast, before being entertained and fed by the crew on the Golden Hinde where we then spent the night aboard.

The Explorer Unit had their Winter Walking weekend, and the Troop had their own Winter Camp, neither of which I was able to join them on, but I know both were successful and fun weekends.

For our first night under canvas this year we repeated our St George’s camp, a new tradition we started with The Dittons last year. Despite the continuous threat of rain, we stayed mostly dry and were even blessed with sun for our Sunday morning campfire ceremony where all present reaffirmed their Scout Promise.

This year saw the return of our Plant Sale, which, with an amazing helping hand from our sections making their own items to sell, was a sellout success. We followed that weekend with an open day to celebrate the Big Help Out, a national initiative to get more people into volunteering.

The fundraising continued with the Esher May Fair, the first I’ve missed in many years due to work commitments, but I know from those in attendance that it was once again a busy and popular event.

Meanwhile in May and June, the Scouts and Explorers had their first 2 weekends at our Cobnor base near Chichester, for sailing out in the harbour. Also, in June the Cubs attended SCRAM, the county Cub activity day, with over 3,000 Cubs all in the same field enjoying a range of fun activities, including the escape rooms put on by Ajax.

July started with the National Scout Pulling and Kayaking regatta, held just up the river from our building. We enjoyed a scorching weekend with plenty of excitement in all the races. A big thank you to our friends at Warspite, who co-organised the event with us. I’m very pleased to report that we brought some silverware home this year!

It was a busy month in July as a week later Ajax was once again running the bar at the Claygate flower show, helping many a thirsty customer despite the occasional rain showers. The week after that was the Cub Summer Camp at Boidier Hurst campsite. Whilst I couldn’t attend the whole weekend, I did very much enjoy joining the Cubs for an exciting walk around Box Hill, followed by shelter building around the campsite.

The next big event of the year of course was the Troop and Unit Summer Camps. This year we returned to a site we’ve not been to for a summer camp for many years, Cobnor Estate. Located next door to the Cobnor Activity Centre, where we spend our sailing weekends, we had a field only a short walk from the boat park where our three Wayfarer sailing boats live. Whilst there were occasional rains in the first week, it certainly didn’t dampen the Explorers enthusiasm for getting out and enjoying more time in Chichester Harbour. We had one of our home county gigs sailing again, which was a joy to see. The Explorers ended their week with a trip to the woods for some survival skills where they learned to cook a deer over an open fire and built their own shelters for the night. Scouts then arrived for their week after the Explorers had left. The bad weather mostly held off and they got in plenty of time sailing, kayaking, using the stand-up paddleboards and went on the odd hike or two for a jam-packed week.

The absolute highlight of the year has to be our 75[th] anniversary party. To celebrate this important milestone, we had an open day, with a BBQ setup, to let everyone come down and enjoy. I was very pleased that over 200 people could come and celebrate with us. To keep everyone entertained we organised a river pageant, showing off the entire fleet of boats that we operate. With over 75 people afloat at once, guests were treated to seeing our power boats, Pico sailing boats, kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards, all cruising past the building in one long procession. The festivities didn’t end there as we recently had the opportunity to acquire another gig, built in the same batch as our original gigs. It had been serviced and brought up to standard ready to be used, so we took the opportunity to launch Hercules, with some very welcome help from the Mayoress who sent the gig on its way. The mayor was present, talking to Ajax members young and old, following a short speech he unveiled the new King’s and Queen’s Scout award plaque that we’d had commissioned. All in all, a fantastic and a great way to celebrate 75 years of Ajax.

Lastly, I’d like to come back to the issue of finding people to volunteer at Ajax. Nationally volunteering is down, and we are certainly feeling it. Every section is running light on leaders, and we need more people to step up and help out. If you yourself or you know anyone else who might be interested, please reach out to a leader or myself for more information on what we need.

This year has been personally very challenging for me, I’ve been starting my own business and that’s not left as much time for Scouting as I would have liked. I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard this year to support Ajax or picked up in areas where I would normally be handling things.

In particular, I would like to thank Andy Davison, who is expertly steering the Group Executive Committee, making things like our new lease become a reality, ensuring all our fundraising events are well executed and generally making sure Ajax is shipshape and ready to deliver Scouting. In addition, Adrian Smith, who seems to have superpowers when it comes to making the Esher May Fair happen and then when he’s barely sat down, he jumps right back in with the Claygate Flower Show bar, thanks Adrian.

I want to thank every volunteer who helps at Ajax. As we are desperately low on volunteers at the moment, this means the current leaders, instructors and helpers have to work extra hard to keep things going. Thank you all for you continued efforts.

As many of you will have heard, our Scout Troop section leader, Diane Davison, has stepped down from her role, to be replaced by Robert Elliott. Diane took over that role from me 8 years ago, and before that she was an assistant leader in Scouts, Cubs and Beavers. All in all, for 16 years Diane has been working hard to make a huge impact on the lives of all the young people in Ajax. Diane’s drive and enthusiasm has led the Troop through countless Winter Camps, Cobnor weekends and summer camps. But don’t worry, Diane is not leaving us, just stepping back from the day to day running of the Troop, she will still be around looking after camps and special events, as well as many other things I’m sure. I want to personally thank Diane for her hard work and dedication to Ajax, the Troop would not be where it is today without you.

Our Beaver Section Leader, Lydia Thomas, is also planning on leaving us at some point soon. She and her partner Jack, also a leader who helps at camps and events, have been converting a van into a camper in preparation for two years of touring around Europe. Lydia has brought an amazing energy and sense of joy to the Beaver Colony and she will be sorely missed. Of course, we hope she and Jack will return to us after their trip, but until then I wish them happy travels.

To all the other leaders, including our new Troop leader Robert, thank you for all you do, it’s an honour and a pleasure to work with you all and I’m looking forward to the next year of Scouting adventures.

BEAVER SCOUT COLONY

(For young people aged 6 to 8)

Beaver Colony Leader Lydia Thomas writes:

Looking back on our Beavers' journey this past year, our leadership team ensured that the musters were both enjoyable and led to an impressive 245 badges being awarded this year – up by 100 from the previous year. The following earned their Chief Scouts Gold award; congratulations to Arthur Craig, Aleksander Evans, Felix Holland, Freddie Hodson, Oliver Naylor, Jackson Reynolds and Emma Raynor, with Eleanor Strudwick set to join their ranks shortly.

On top of the core challenge badges, we also awarded many Beavers their Air Activities, Builder, Cook, Creative, Emergency Aid, Gardener, Global Issues, International, Nautical Skills, and Time on the Water badges. We also ran some "Log Chews" so as to gauge our Beavers' preferences and highlights throughout the year, and contribute to youth lead scouting.

The Autumn term commenced with a reflective tribute to the Queen's memorial, establishing the connection between the monarchy and Scouting. The Beavers’ teamwork flourished as we engaged in get-to-knowyou games with our newest members. Our resident Pilot, Adrian, captained the Air Activities badge, ending with a paper aeroplane competition. We created bonfire artwork forged from natural materials and learnt about Guy Fawkes. Essential life skills of road safety, first aid, and emergency protocols were taught to the Beavers over multiple sessions. One of the favourite activities this term was the 'junk modelling' session, where our Beavers invented and crafted models of machines designed to save the planet from recycled materials; solar and wind-powered ocean cleanup robots, water filtering machines, food generators and tree planters were amongst some of the imaginative designs.

Following the festive break, the Spring term unfolded with the Book Reader's badge, inspiring us to craft bookmarks and discuss our favourite reads. We investigated safe water practices, constructing water filters from pebbles, sand, cotton wool, and recycled plastic bottles, exploring the magic of mud filtration. Lunar New Year celebrations included delightful Chinese food tasting, a step toward achieving our International Badge. We attended the district Beavers party, joining the wonderland themed activities, and watching a performance of Alice in Wonderland. The term heated up with a Zumba with Amy, transforming our gathering into a colourful, disco-lit Latin party, teaching the Beavers about health and fitness. Our last few sessions included tower-building challenges with spaghetti and marshmallows and enjoying some classic Easter games including an anagram easter egg hunt.

Planting the seed for a green-thumb mentality, the Summer term began with we nurturing plants, learning plant care, and making wildflower seed balls and repurposing old wellington boot into planters to sell at the plant sale for fundraising. Nautical theory and safety preparations set the stage for exhilarating powerboating and rowing adventures, buoyed by splendid weather for our boat cruises. We trundled through Stoke’s Field Woods, exploring diverse habitats and their inhabitants, and discussing plant pests and diseases, and the Beavers adored creating fairy houses from sticks and twigs. Culinary delights were on the menu with a messy session making rocky road gifts for Father's Day. Our last few musters made the most of the fresh air, and included a sports day session, wide games at Summer Road Rec, and waterbased games outdoors at the WAC, where cooling splashes were welcomed under the hot sun!

In summary, it was a year of challenges, games, and wonderful learning experiences for our Beavers. A huge thank you to Dan and Adrian, along with our dedicated explorer young leaders—Ffion, Leon, Amy, and Nora—for their unwavering support and contributions to another memorable year at Beaver Scouts.

CUB SCOUT PACK

(For young people aged 8 to 10½)

Cub Scout Leader Ruth Mortby writes:

Another fantastic year as the pack goes from strength to strength, running at (and sometimes above) our maximum capacity of 36 young people. With a growing leader team and brilliant support from our section parents, we’ve been able to deliver a year of adventures, afloat and ashore.

Highlights from our Autumn Term:

Highlights from our Spring Term:

Highlights from our Summer Term:

These highlights are just some of our larger events for the year, but our weekly program was loaded with challenge and adventure too: we welcomed back Amy for an awesome evening of Zumba, turned our hands to DIY with making birdboxes, a Penny Hike, a water fight at Collets, local knowledge hike around Thames Ditton, as well as learning about new cultures, the environment and many other topics during our evening musters. We repeated our highly successful Cubs in charge night which is now a regular feature of our programme.

Congratulations to all our cubs on your achievements this year – from many first nights away, to those taking on peer leadership roles for the first time. We’ve awarded 20 silver challenge awards this year, over 50 challenge badges, and more than 300 activity badges! You are achieving so much, I’m now having to stock higher levels of our staged badges (hikes away, nights away, time on the water) than ever before!

Parent involvement with Cubs over the year is something I’d like to say a personal thank you for. With a small leader team in Cubs, getting the support from parents during our musters and events makes a huge difference to the opportunities we can offer. A shout out here to the setup/take down teams, as well as meal-time helpers during Summer Camp and also for all the parent support which was critical in allowing us to get Cubs on the water each week.

We have welcomed Fran, Scott, Jason and James to the leader team, along with our two amazing young leaders, Ed and Molly. To all of you, and our incredible existing team: Dan, Alex and Gavan, thank you for everything you have done this year – I’m thrilled with the programme we’ve been able to offer and excited for what comes next and growing the team. None of this is possible without you and the time and energy you all give.

Here's to a new year, new adventures, and a whole lot of fun!

SEA SCOUT TROOP

(For young people aged 10½ to 14)

Sea Scout Leader Diane Davison writes:

A challenging year for the Troop section. The weather played havoc with our summer boating season and musters were often flexed to accommodate leadership availability. However, we did manage to deliver a fun and inspiring year.

Autumn term started with huge interest from the Scouts in planning, from start to finish, their own patrol camp. This was a huge learning experience in terms of the detail and thought process to deliver all the elements of a successful camp. The Scouts had huge laughs at some of the menu issues that arose, can you have cereal without milk? Is steak not really affordable?

We managed to keep one patrol each week rowing on the river right up until mid-November. We then visited the Fire station, which we had not been to in a long time, a lot of water was involved, great fun!

We also went swimming and discovered that we have a fantastic group of swimmers, with most of the Troop completing over 30 lengths of Hampton open air pool.

We had a mini-night hike in Black Pond and spent time looking at fire and its role in Ajax. We also put on our second Carol concert to which the local residents and parents were invited – a great Christmas occasion.

Spring term saw us honing our scouting skills and first aid. We also went to the Ashdown Forest to hike to Pooh Bear’s bridge where Pooh sticks was compulsory entertainment. The apple crumble at winter camp was a great hit, with every Scout having seconds, amazing considering there was fruit in it! After skiing and climbing the high ropes, we moved onto prep for the summer term.

Summer term arrived or was it autumn?? For the first three weeks of term, we were unable to get on the water, as the river was flowing way too fast. This really was a massive problem as we had great dreams for the Sea Scout regatta, we needed to bring home some cups this year.

The Plant Sale made a comeback this year and the Scouts made a brilliant contribution to the overall success. In their own time they made Seed Bombs and painted pebbles which were sold alongside the plants. There were some particularly stunning ladybird pebbles which of course all sold!

The Esher May Fair saw the Scout Patrol and Assistant Patrol leaders helping run the sweet stall with the Explorers, they had great fun and learned new skills. Basically how to make slush puppies and Candy floss and of course how to eat them. We definitely need to find a Candy Floss badge to award!

Eventually we got onto the water, started boating in kayaks, all types of rowing boats and SUPs, then we started to look at who would make up the teams for the Regatta. We introduced rowing and kayaking to the younger Scouts which they all took to really well and confidently. We had a couple of sailing sessions when there was wind in the evening.

There were two weekends when we went off to Chichester Harbour to go sailing in Wayfarers…. many of the Scouts achieved RYA stage awards, congratulations to all of them.

The Regatta proved to be brilliant particularly for the under 12½ team. The under 14s brilliantly won the Double Dinghy cup. The under 12½ team won the individual kayak trophy and the overall under 12½ trophy.

Please check out the trophy cupboard!

Summer Camp, the highlight of the Scouting year!:

Scouts out for a paddle on Ajax's giant SUP

Sailing a gig is way easier than rowing it!

Clockwise from top left: (1) Sailing in a gig is a new experience for many of our Scouts; (2) Chichester Harbour and its surroundings is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, a major wildlife haven, and perfect to explore on a day hike; (3) All the Scout patrols shared a central mess tent at this year's Summer Camp; and (4) Learning to sail a Pico sailing dinghy is fun !

We held our camp this year in an area of outstanding natural beauty and it was stunning. Even the weather was with us, most of the time anyway. The Scouts enjoyed a very special camp where, for the first time, they had the opportunity to drive a power boat and to sail one of our traditional Home Counties Gigs, Norge. The camp offered many opportunities to sail with our Picos and Wayfarers in addition to the Gig. The packed programme also included kayaking in our new touring kayaks, messing about on the giant SUP as well as our normal SUPs, hiking and staying away overnight. A full-on week was experienced by all including all the leaders!

The numbers in the Troop have remained fairly consistent at around 45 throughout the year.

The leadership team have worked hard and been incredibly resilient in terms of providing a brilliant experience for the Scouts. Work pressures prey on available time and we have lost a couple of leaders this year – we really need new people to come and join us, have some fun and make a lasting contribution to the lives of our Scouts.

Ask yourself could you help? Can you commit time to helping us?

As you are aware I am stepping down as Scout leader. After some 18 years in scouting as a leader and at least twelve of those in Scouts I think I need a break! Robert Elliott has stepped up to take over as Troop leader and come September he will be running things ably assisted by Phil Shortman, Andrew Rowan, Dane Wilson and Simon Corkin and a team of young leaders. I wish them great adventures and lots of fun!

I am not leaving the Group but will be more involved in the Scout camps and events.

I am as ever totally indebted over the past year to the wonderful group of volunteer Leaders, Instructors, and Young Leaders who made the Scout programme this year so brilliant. Again, this year their commitment to the Scouts has been exemplary. Without their generosity of time, holidays, skills, creativity and good humour Ajax would not be the same!

My grateful thanks go to Jamie Ashley, Simon Corkin, Andy Davison, Robert Elliott, Andrew Rowan, Barbara Rusis, Phil Shortman, Dane Wilson - who all regularly attend musters.

Also thanks to Chris West, Izzy Elliot, Hugo Goodman, Max Kingdon, Alex Soden, Hannah Conroy, Molly and Isabelle Lanigan, Poppy Lloyd Jones, Tilly Carrow, Jane and Tom Rusis and Marcus Wilson : most of whom on returning from university or taking work holidays provide invaluable help and enthusiasm at some musters and at Summer Camp.

And last, but certainly not least, our Young Leaders led by Morgan who has been outstanding in his commitment to the Troop. He has been assisted by James, Ben, Jonathan, and Cameron .

Many thanks to you all for all the fun I have had in scouting….so far!

EXPLORER SEA SCOUT UNIT

(For young people aged 14½ to 18)

Explorer Sea Scout Leader Nick Barber writes:

The Unit currently has 20 members comprising six young women and fourteen young men. Early September 2023 we will also welcome 7 new members from the troop (Casper, Dexter, Eben, Ethan, Lucas Shortman, Lucas Symons and Tennyson).

We continue to see that many of our Explorers are also Young Leaders, helping with the other Sections in an adult leadership capacity. The Young Leader Scheme is run by District’s Jonathan Perkins who will send out information periodically on how to progress the Young Leader awards and training. Internally the leadership team will then find places for those wanting to be Young Leaders within another section in Ajax (NB Young Leader Module A is a compulsory requirement prior to working with other sections).

Post Explorers we are regularly seeing these fine young men and women coming back to assist in their down time from university and working life in leadership/instructor roles. Scouting is a movement after all, and we have seen a consistent willingness from members post explorers to contribute to the health and longevity of the group, which I applaud.

Now since last September we have done a lot! Most of our activity can be seen visually on our Facebook page. But I will list the activities here, which included using our new touring kayaks, sailing at Cobnor (In Chichester harbour), power-boat-handling courses, a geocache night hike, we continued with the new format for St George’s day, which is now a weekend camp instead of a parade, a trip to Buckingham Palace to pay our respects to HRM the Queen, then held a community memorial service at Giggs Hill Green in remembrance of a truly remarkable monarch and patron of scouting. Summer term involved lots of training for the regatta and the Great River Race. We also attended a film night hosted by Hinchley Wood explorers, Xmas carols with residents from Ditton Reach, Ice skating at Hampton Court Palace, the District Winter Activity weekend (hillwalking in the Peak District), first aid training stage 5, scuba diving, the district wide game and the district shooting competition, a unit litter pick on the Thames using the electric Go Boats, and to top it all off our summer camp in Chichester, Operation X, and a successful Gold DoE Expedition!

Looking forward to the New Year we again have the District Winter Activity weekend, and a good repeat dose of the above activities.

I also encourage every unit member to keep an eye out for upcoming 2024’s STV’s (Sail Training Voyages) aboard one of the Rona Sailing Projects' purpose-built sail training yachts. I enjoyed these when I was a Venture scout and thoroughly recommend the project. STV’s also count towards your Gold DoE Residential element so get booking!

It was great to see Ed, James, Amy, Will and Leon completing their DoE Gold expedition in the New Forest. Well done!

Lastly but most importantly, I’d like to thank my team; Jan, Diane, Sergio, Alex, Dane, and Jamie who make Scouting happen for these amazing young men and women.

DoE Gold expedition setting off.

OUR FLEET

We continue to invest in our fleet of boats. In March 2023 we took delivery of 9 new touring kayaks, and over Summer 2023 we acquired Hercules, a PYMBS-era Home Counties gig, which we have had restored to serviceable condition.

However, we do need help with boat maintenance so if you are able to lend a hand, or know someone who could be interested, please contact Peter Wadsworth (peter@ajax.org.uk), and look out for requests for volunteers from Ajax Bosun, Alex Soden

WATER ACTIVITIES TRAINING

Ajax and Warspite continue jointly to operate a Royal Yachting Association ‘Recognised Training Centre’ at Thames Ditton, which delivers valuable training synergies for both Groups.

This year marks our full return to a normal boating season with delivery of training and qualifications for RYA dinghy sailing, rowing, paddlesports, powerboating, marine VHF radio usage and RYA first aid. Unfortunately, we continue to work through the legacy impact of the Covid pandemic which severely curtailed training and development opportunities for our young members and adult skills' instructors over 2020-22.

ISLAND BARN

Ajax and Warspite have joint membership of Island Barn Reservoir Sailing Club located in West Molesey. Unfortunately, over the last 12 months, our use of the training and sailing opportunities at Island Barn were limited because our leadership and skills instructor teams are under-strength. If you are able to help, or know someone who might be interested, please contact Peter Wadsworth (peter@ajax.org.uk).

As Ajax looks to the future, we will update our strategy for the delivery of water activity programmes, including the role of facilities at Island Barn reservoir, and the mix, location, maintenance and (in due course) replacement of our fleet to support those programmes.

RONA SAILING PROJECT

(For young people aged over 14)

Rona Sailing Project (RSP, www.ronasailingproject.org.uk) is a registered charity which provides affordable sail training on purpose-built yachts. Their stated aim is to provide opportunities for young people to develop a sense of responsibility, resourcefulness and teamwork which will help them throughout their lives. Anyone over the age of 14 can apply for a place and we strongly recommend all Ajaccios to do so. In fact a number of the volunteer Skippers and Mates serving with RSP are Old Ajaccios!.

We encourage our Explorers to get involved and take advantage of this amazing opportunity.

DUKE of EDINBUGH AWARDS

(For young people aged over 14)

Ajax ran two successful Bronze expeditions in October/November 2022 which 9 participants completed. Unusually for the Group, one expedition was on water and the second due to weather constraints was Hiking!!!

We are also delighted that at Summer Camp in Chichester this year we were able to run a Gold Hiking Expedition in the New Forest. This was undertaken by Amy, Ed, James, Leon and Will. They experienced typical English summer rain which made the going very muddy. The team spirit of this group was exceptional and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

ROYAL NAVY RECOGNITION

Ajax is one of just 105 Sea Scout Groups in the UK to be officially recognised by the Royal Navy and we have held this recognition continuously from the inception of the Group. Beyond the prestige of RN recognition, there are a number of tangible benefits including access to Grant Aid. Our recent purchase of the touring kayaks through this fund has proved a valuable acquisition for the Group.

Following a relaunch of the scheme some years ago, all RN Recognised Groups are now affiliated with a local RN Unit. Together with nine other Groups in the London area, we are affiliated with the London University Royal Naval Unit.

To maintain RN recognition, all Groups are regularly reviewed to ensure the required standards are maintained. Due to changes in the operation of the scheme we have not had an inspection for some time, I fully expect this to change next year.

THANKS

Another exciting year full of fun and adventures all round and with a new gig on the water and new storage facilities coming soon, I fully expect Ajax to continue to thrive going forwards.

I once again wish to give my heartfelt thanks to all the Leaders, Trustees, Instructors and helpers who volunteer so much time to make Ajax happen, thank you all!

Chris West GROUP SCOUT LEADER

ABOUT 4TH THAMES DITTON 'AJAX' SEA SCOUTS

In common with all Scout groups, the 4[th] Thames Ditton 'Ajax' Sea Scouts (the "Group” or "Charity”) is a charity established under the Royal Charter granted to The Scout Association dated 4[th] January 1912 as amended by supplemental charters dated 28[th] March 1949, 18[th] February 1959, 5[th] May 1967 and 19[th] July 1991. Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of the Scout Association.

GROUP INFORMATION AS OF 31[ST] MARCH 2023

Charity Registration Number:

Scout Association Registration Number:

303764 25880

Honorary Roles: Group President Group Vice Presidents

Mrs Marguerite Rollason MBE Mrs Janet Barber Mrs Doreen Neal

Trustees Ex-Officio (Principal Officers): Group Chair Group Secretary Group Treasurer

Andy Davison Tina Chale Peter Drysdale

Trustees Ex-Officio (Leadership roles): Group Scout Leader Assistant Group Scout Leader Explorer Sea Scout Leader Sea Scout Leader Cub Scout Leader Beaver Scout Leader

Chris West Peter Wadsworth Nick Barber Diane Davison Ruth Mortby Lydia Thomas

Trustees Nominated: Group Advisers

Youth Adviser Supporter

George Barber Mark Faulkner Mark Marriott Alex Soden Raymond Mears

Trustees Elected: Parent representative (Scout section) Parent representative (Explorer unit) Parent representative (Cub section) Special Projects Adviser Parent representative (Scout section) Parent representative (Explorer unit)

Mark Dence Peter Lloyd-Jones Heather Ryder Andrew Roberts Andrew Rowan Adrian Smith

Trustees Co-opted Parent representative (Cub section) Custodian Trustee:

Independent Examiner: Contact Name and Address:

Nicola Slammon

The Scout Association Trust Corporation Barry Hitchens

Chris West 4 Hartford Road Epsom KT19 9JD

TRUSTEES' REPORT

The Trustees present their report and the financial statements for the 4[th] Thames Ditton 'Ajax' Sea Scout Group for the year ended 31[st] March 2023.

Responsibilities of the Trustees

Charity law requires the Trustees to keep accounting records and prepare annual statements of account for the Charity which must be audited or independently examined and provided to the Charity Commission. In preparing the annual statement of accounts the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and are responsible for safeguarding its assets and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Review of Activity of the Charity

The Group currently has an active Beaver Scout Colony, Cub Scout Pack and Sea Scout Troop and a partnership agreement with the Ajax Explorer Sea Scout Unit. Key details of each Section are as follows:

All Sections have continued to work in accordance with the progressive training scheme as laid down by the Scout Association.

The Group has continued to operate a Royal Yachting Association Training Centre based at the Water Activities Centre and operated jointly with Warspite Sea Scouts. The RYA Centre’s Principal is supported by a team of RYA Instructors with qualifications covering sailing, power boating, VHF communications and first aid.

The Group is one of just 105 Sea Scout Groups in the United Kingdom recognised by the Royal Navy. This prestigious and beneficial recognition is subject to regular inspections at approximately 18-month intervals. To retain recognition, the Group must demonstrate that it continues to achieve the standard required, in appearance, dress, bearing and badge work, as well as showing progress in efficiency.

Reserves

The Trustees have adopted a formal policy on reserves which is reflected in these accounts. The policy provides that reserves be maintained at a level which has regard to:

Readily realisable resources are defined as the balances at the bank less current liabilities and the balance on designated funds for WAC building development.

As at 31 March 2023, the Group held reserves of £32,050 (2022: £20,706), which is above the level of reserves of £30,000 required under the policy.

Investment Policy

The Group does not have sufficient funds to invest in longer term investments. All funds are held in cash or "at call" short term investments with The Scout Association, Skipton Building Society and Cambridge & Counties Bank.

Governance

The Group's governing documents are those of The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, The By-Laws of the Association and The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

The Group is a trust established under rules which are common to all Scout Groups.

The Trustees are appointed in accordance with The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

The Group is managed by an Executive Committee made up of all the Charity's Trustees. As charity trustees, they are responsible for complying with legislation applicable to charities. This includes the registration, keeping of proper accounts and making of appropriate returns to the Charity Commission.

The Group Executive Committee consists of independent representatives comprising Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary and parent representatives of each Section together with the Group Scout Leader, Assistant Group Scout Leaders and the Leaders of each Section. The Committee normally meets five times per year.

The Committee exists to support the Group Scout Leader in meeting the responsibilities of the Group and is responsible for:

Risk Assessment

The Committee has identified the major risks to which they believe the Group is exposed. These have been reviewed and systems established to mitigate against them as follows:

Damage to buildings and equipment: The Group would request the use of buildings and equipment from neighbouring organisations. The Group has sufficient buildings and contents insurance in place to mitigate against permanent loss.

Injury to leaders, members and helpers : The Group, through the capitation fees, contributes to The Scout Association's national accident insurance policy. Risk Assessments are undertaken before all activities.

Reduced income from fund raising: The Group is primarily reliant upon income from subscriptions and fund raising. The Group does hold a reserve to ensure the continuity of activities should there be a major reduction in income. The Committee could increase the level of subscriptions to increase the income to the Group either temporarily or permanently.

Reduction or loss of members: The Group provides activities for young people aged 6 to 18. If there were a reduction in membership of a particular Section or of the Group as a whole then there would have to be a contraction, consolidation or closure of a Section, or in the worst case scenario, the complete closure of the Group.

Reduction or loss of leaders: The Group is totally reliant upon volunteers to run and administer the activities of the Group. If there were a reduction in the number of leaders to an unacceptable level in a particular Section or the Group as a whole then there would have to be a contraction, consolidation or closure of a Section, or in the worst case scenario, the complete closure of the Group.

The Group requires two signatories for all payments to provide reasonable assurance against material mismanagement or loss of money and holds comprehensive insurance policies to ensure that insurable risks are covered.

Group Objectives

The aim of the Group is to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international community. The method of achieving this aim is by providing an enjoyable and attractive scheme of progressive training, based on the Scout Promise and Law and guided by trained adult leadership.

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT Thamlg Dth Alax Sea Scallls 303764 AlaA Sea Scouts I report ID the lrnsleES Ots my examinthn ofthe accouTrts of the above tharlry for the year to 31￿ Marth 2023 that ar• sat out ou Ihe the charl￿￿ tn￿tttS. IY•ll ar• r•%￿•$1￿￿e for thv of a¢co¥nts ID a0￿rdance with the rewir•ments ofthe (knies ALt 2011 (the Artj I rorknri lft res￿ vf my examinatiom of the Tru£fs actDunts G•rrknd oyl under sectrn 145 of Ibe 2011 AL1 and In rxryiry out my I bave folknwol 14S(SMh) of the ACL I ha￿ compkted my ffAaminatio l a>nfirm that no maierknl rn4illen hdvf nty attentloN the e%amlDatkno that Ktres mc caux to belx¥e that th any respxt of Ihe fhdriues Art or b} the accounts did not Lijmply wlth the r•rnrth or CTharttle3 (Accounts and Rew)rtsl Re8ylatsons 20{￿ other than any requtremcni thdt iicivuo15' xive il fajr. 7rnw wh￿ts ￿ ntst I ha￿ no roncerns and haw. ¢.rJhW. a(.'foS% no other matter5 In connectsn wlth the examiMIiDll to wthiLh allet)lknm s)M)ukl be drawn ￿ thAs rtwl kn ord¢f e￿￿lE a proper understsnthn8 ol the aa￿unIS ￿ be rexhed B•rry Httchwts- Av¥tralian Som of A(tounlaJrt 24 EffirJ8harn Road. IA&nÉ &irrey. rr6 5lY -25-

FINANCIAL REPORT - YEAR ENDING 31 MARCH 2023

Prepared By Peter Drysdale, Group Treasurer

Ajax Sea Scout Group remains in good financial health. Although Covid is largely behind us it throws a long shadow which meant that 2022/23 was not quite back to normal.

Operating Highlights

In round numbers, cash in the bank as at the year end stands at £74,000 (2022: £97,000) a net reduction of £23,000.

Overall, the Income and Expenditure statement shows a net deficit of £13,000. Net Operations was a deficit of £4,000. Subscription Income was £5,000 up compared to 2021/22. But the big increase in apparent Income is due to raw income from activities and fundraising. Costs are largely back to pre-covid levels but there was increased expenditure on maintenance (reflecting increased activity) and £2,000 of insurance for the 2 minibuses kindly donated to us by Hinchley Wood School (one since sold). Fundraising, net of costs, contributed £5,000 – rather less than pre-covid levels.

Major expenditure accounted for £14,000 – principally £5,000 on Kayaks (actual cost £10,000, for which we had received a £5,000 grant from the Royal Navy in 2021/22), with £4,000 on new tents, and £2,000 on a new generator.

The difference between the declared I&E deficit of £13,000 and the cash outflow of £23,000 is that the £5,000 RN grant for the kayaks had been received in 2021/22 and £5,000 Gift Aid for 2022/23 was not actually received until after year end.

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2023

1 Basis of preparation of accounts

1.1 Basis of accounting

These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts. The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (the Charities SORP) and with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). The Charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

1.2 Going Concern

The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the Charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.

2 Accounting Policies

2.1 Income recognition

All regularly recurring income is recognised in the period in which it is received. This applies to Subscriptions, Gift Aid on subscriptions and Investment Income.

Donations are recognised once received. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the Charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the Charity and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.

Any Gift Aid amount recovered on a donation is considered to be part of that gift and is treated as an addition to the same fund as the initial donation unless the donor or the terms of the appeal have specified otherwise. It is recognised in the period in which it is received.

Restricted donations and grants will be recognised in the period in which the associated costs are incurred and until then will be treated as creditors.

Income from Fundraising and Activities is recognised in the period in which the fundraising event or activity takes place. Deposits received in prior periods will be deferred until the period in which the activity takes place.

All other income is recognised in the period in which it is received.

2.2 Expenditure and liabilities

A liability exists where there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the Charity to that expenditure, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All such liabilities will ordinarily be discharged as soon as possible. Only material liabilities not discharged by the end of the period will be accrued.

Some annual costs eg Insurance, Subscriptions, Rent and other similar dues which extend beyond the current period and which on a strict accruals basis would to that extent ordinarily be accrued, will be recognised in full in the period in which they are paid.

All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings.

The classification between headings is as follows:

All expenditure on fundraising events or activities is recognised in the period in which the fundraising event or activity occurs. Prior period deposits will be treated as prepayments.

Materiality: Accruals of expenditure other than that for Fundraising or Activities will only be made where they exceed £500 individually or £1,000 in total.

3 Assets

The lease and building are held by The Scout Association Trust Corporation on Behalf of 1st Cuddington “Warspite” and 4th Thames Ditton “Ajax” Sea Scout Groups. Ground rent is reviewed by Elmbridge Borough Council every seven years based on Retail Price Index since the last review. The current ground rent is £113 per annum. The current lease expires in 2078 but is being renegotiated to include part of the trailer park opposite the WAC. As the lease cannot be assigned or transferred and does not permit subletting it is not considered to have any market value. There is a legal agreement between the two Groups for a Joint Liaison Committee meeting to take place at intervals of not exceeding six months to review matters of mutual interest

4 Funds

Unrestricted General Funds are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity. Designated Funds are funds set aside out of unrestricted General Funds for specific purposes or projects. Restricted Funds are funds subject to specific restrictive conditions imposed by the donors or by the purpose of the appeal. The reduction in Restricted Funds reflects the application of the £5,000 RN grant towards the purchase of kayaks. No restricted donations or grants were received in the year.

5 Insurance Policies

The WAC building is insured for reinstatement cost of £883,000. Contents at £95,000 and the boats at £90,000.

Income & Expenditure 2022 - 2023

Notes
Income from:
Donations, Legacies. Subscriptions and similar income
1
Camp fees
Other activities in furtherance of the Charities objects
Fundraising
Investment Income
Total
Expenditure on:
Fundraising Costs
Expenses of the activities by the Group
Total
Net Income
Balance Sheet
Notes
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds Brought Forward
Total Funds Carried Forward
Current Assets
Cash at bank and in hand
2
Debtors and prepayments
3
Stock of Uniform
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
4
Net Assets
Represented by:
Restricted Funds
Designated Funds
Unrestricted Funds		 Notes
Income from:
Donations, Legacies. Subscriptions and similar income
1
Camp fees
Other activities in furtherance of the Charities objects
Fundraising
Investment Income		 2023
£
2022
£
34,321
25,626
35,199
23,431
2,752
21,572
70
647
674
**Total ** 91,739
52,553
Expenditure on:
Fundraising Costs
Expenses of the activities by the Group		 16,256
115
88,493
59,739
**Total ** 104,749
59,854
Net Income (13,010)
(7,301)
2023
£
2022
£
95,425
102,726
82,416
95,425
73,698
96,819
12,075
(4,012)
4,243
2,618
(7,600)
Net Assets 82,416
95,425
Represented by:
Restricted Funds
Designated Funds
Unrestricted Funds		 1,500
5,987
48,866
68,732
32,050
20,706
82,416
95,425

Notes to the Accounts

1
2
3		 Analysis of Donations etc
Subscriptions
Donations and Legacies
Grants
Covid Grant
Other		 2023
£
2022
£
28,122
23,015
290
4,987
2,096
1,212
225
Total 34,321
25,626
Cash at bank and in hand
Current Accounts - HSBC
Camp
Main
Nr 3
Bmm
Soldo
Subs
Total
Investment Accounts
Scout Association
Skipton
Cambridge & Counties
Total		 2023
£
2022
£
2,751
1,321
1,667
1,688
10
1,134
3,552
4,166
195
304
1,713
8,043
9,888
16,656
94
134
8,972
25,826
54,744
54,203
63,810
80,163
Total 73,698
96,819
Debtors and prepayments
Cobnor
Activities
Gift Aid
Other
Prepayments
Prepayments- Donations & Grants		 2023
£
2022
£
4,290
2,640
2,969
4,500
316
-665
-5,987
Total 12,075
-4,012
4 Creditors
2023
£
Defibrillator
1,000
National Regatta
3,212
SCRAM 2023
780
Esher May Fair
690
Uniform Costs
1,418
EnvironmentAgency
500
Total
7,600
Designated Funds

Building Development
Building Repairs
All Craft
Tentage
HQ Security
National Regatta
New Lease & Trailer Park
Project		 Op Balance
£
Income
£
Expenditure
£
Redesignated
£
Cl Balance
£
64,433
1,000
-52,567
10,866
7,500
7,500
1,303
4,987
10,107
8,817
5,000
106
3,900
5,294
1,500
2,500
6,500
9,000
390
-390
0
15,000
15,000

These accounts for the year ending 31 March 2023 were approved by the Group's trustees at a meeting of the Group's Executive Committee held on 17 September 2023.

Authorised signatories for and on behalf of the Group's trustees:

Chris West, Group Scout Leader

Peter Drysdale, Group Treasurer

Andrew Davison, Group Chair

Ajax Sea Scout Group and Explorer Sea Scout Unit

KEY CONTACTS

Group Scout Leader Chris West 07967 806818 gsl@ajax.org.uk Asst. Group Scout Leader Peter Wadsworth 07527 554029 peter@ajax.org.uk Beaver Colony Lydia Thomas 07950 790153 beavers@ajax.org.uk Cub Pack Ruth Mortby 07941 206568 cubs@ajax.org.uk Sea Scout Troop Diane Davison 07814 131377 troop@ajax.org.uk Explorer Sea Scout Unit Nick Barber 07981 037052 explorers@ajax.org.uk Group Chair Andy Davison 07970 265921 andy.davison@ajax.org.uk Group Secretary Anjani Srivastava secretary@ajax.org.uk Group Treasurer Peter Drysdale treasurer@ajax.org.uk

For more information about this report or membership of Ajax contact:

Chris West Email: gsl@ajax.org.uk

Ajax Sea Scout Group and Explorer Sea Scout Unit The Chiefy Sharman Water Activities Centre 19a Ditton Reach Thames Ditton Surrey KT7 0XB

(No facility to receive mail at this address)

Telephone: 020 8398 4777 Website: www.ajax.org.uk

Ajax Sea Scouts is a Registered Charity No: 303764