Dear parents,

As we move into 2008 we come to the end of the Centenary of Scouting - the 100 years since Baden Powell held his first camp for boys on Brownsea Island - ask the kids!!

As part of the celebrations there was a World Jamboree held in Essex in August and by all accounts Henllys had the largest contingent of ex-Scouts (they need to be 14-18 and in Explorers to attend) from any Scout Group worldwide.

More locally our group took part in the big parade in Newport in April, a district Camp at Chainbridge in May, the Sunrise ceremony at Keepers Pond in August as well as other events which will celebrated this milestone throughout the year.

All children were issued with a 100 Challenge booklet to try over the year - they now need to complete what they can on this as they need to be collected in at the start of next term. Note that every child who attempts some of this booklet will get a badge.

Also this year we are again collecting the Sainsbury's Active Kids vouchers to gain more equipment for the Group. Weather permitting you may get to try some of the games at the Village Fete this year!

We have lost a number of leaders over the last couple of years and would welcome more help and new blood to the Group to replace those leaders who have moved on. Although we shouldn't really complain, as we are far better off than most groups in the district, more leaders are always sought - so please PLEASE give it some serious thought. Most of us have full time jobs too, and still find time to contribute.

Additionally we are low on numbers on the executive committee. If anyone feels they can help but does not want to work directly with the children we need plenty of help behind the scenes. About three meetings are held per term - in the Cwrt Henllys!

Finally, we have many more events planned for this year including hikes, swimming galas and camps, so there should be plenty to keep the children occupied.

Yours in scouting,

Elaine Burrill

Group Scout Leader