Embedded Files
1st North Sutton Scout Group
30 Years Of Success In Scouting, 1969 - 1999
“Scouting is a movement because it moves forward. As
soon as it stops moving, it becomes an organization,
and is no longer Scouting”
These words were said by Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of
the Scout Movement and the first Chief Scout of the World.
These words are as true today as they were when he said them.
In order to move forward, you need to know which direction is
forward. This can only be found by looking back to see where
you have been, where you are now and to realize how you got
to where you are today.
With the 1st North Sutton’s celebrations of 30 years of success
in Scouting, it is opportune that a history of the Group is
produced to allow all of us to see the highs & the lows, the
successes & failures and look at how the Group has developed
over the last 30 years. This will give us all the ability to reflect
on the past so that we can plan for the future.
Planning for the future is of paramount importance. It is the
future of the 1st North Sutton that is the challenge we all face.
For it is the direction in which our Scout Group is steered, by
our leaders, parents and supporters, that the shape of Scouting
in the Group in the coming years will be defined. It is our
responsibility that the Scouting that that these boys and girls
have available to them, and the facilities and equipment they
use, meets their needs, is challenging, enjoyable and safe for
them all.
Before the 1st North Sutton - The Foundations Upon Which Our Group Was Built
1929
A Scout Troop is formed, which meets at the former Parish Hall in Vale Road. It is
registered on 4th May with Scout Headquarters as ‘9th Sutton (Benhilton)’. Their
scarves are maroon in colour and the Scoutmaster is the curate, Rev E V Kingston.
1933
The older Scouts decide that they should not be required to attend Sunday School
and so the group separates from the Church. On the 25th April, the Group reregisters
as the ‘9th Sutton’. The scarf colour is changed to blue and black (halved),
which is a mixing of the 1st & 2nd Sutton’s colours, as these are the Groups which
provide the leaders to run the Group.
1935
Land in Stayton Road becomes available to rent. The 9th Sutton erect a ‘temporary’
wooden hut on the site named ‘Mafeking Hall’ (This ‘temporary’ hall is the front hall
on the site today)
11th September, the 10th Sutton Rover Crew begin meeting at the District Rover
Den in Bridge Road. Their scarf is gold-edged black, surmounted with the Cross of
Lorraine. They are ‘controlled’ by ‘Toc H’, Wandle District Committee.
The 3rd Sutton Scouts move into a HQ in Benhilton Gardens.
1937
After flourishing since their formation in 1935, the 10th Sutton Rover Crew disband.
1939
The 10th Sutton Rover Crew is revived in September by the investiture of Rev. L. E.
Whitlock by ‘Skipper Riley’, the District Rover Scout Leader 1941
After a meeting on November 11th, Rover Scouts from the 10th Sutton Crew,
including Rev Leslie Whitlock, start the ‘10th Sutton (All Saints) Scout Group’. They
meet in Vale Road and are sponsored by All Saints’ Benhilton. Their scarves are Gold
edged Black, as per the 10th Rover Crew, but without the Cross of Lorraine emblem.
The first official meeting is on November 11th and the Group is registered on 14th
November.
1944
The Parish Hall is destroyed by a V1 flying bomb (doodle-bug) on July 14th. All
equipment is destroyed. Some ‘War Damage Compensation’ is received. The claim
was for at total of £38 12s. 0d.
The 10th Sutton (All Saints) hold two joint meetings with the 9th Sutton before
moving temporarily to Marshalls Road (the Methodist Church Hall) in September.
1945
Paul Richardson becomes Assistant Scout Master of the 10th Sutton (All Saints)
Scout Troop.
First Group newsheet of the 10th Sutton produced. It is titled ‘The Saint & Sinner’.
The ‘Saint’ is Rev. Whitlock and the ‘Sinner’ appears to be Paul Richardson!
The 10th Sutton (All Saints) move meetings to Crown Road School (where Benhilton
C.of.E School is held, since the Benhilton School has also been destroyed)
1948
The 10th Sutton move meetings to the District HQ in West Street, which is a
duplicate of the hall destroyed in Vale road in 1944.
Rev. L. E. Whitlock leaves the District. ASM Paul Richardson takes over the running of
the Troop and the Group.
1955
The District sell the hall in West Street. The Group arrange to meet at Benhilton
School. At the same time a 2nd Wolf Cub Pack is formed.
The District offer the use of land in Benhilton Gardens, which had once been used by
the 3rd Sutton. Their hall on the site had been destroyed by fire when the roof was
being re-tarred.
1958
The 10th Sutton purchase a ‘Tennis Pavilion’ from the Harrowdene Tennis Club.
This is transported and erected on the site by Messrs H. Turnbull & Company Ltd.
This is paid for with the assistance of the District who provide a loan.
1959
The 10th Sutton (All Saints) Scout Group’s new HQ is opened and the Group relocate
to their new home.
In September, the 9th Sutton purchase the land on which their HQ is located,
together with an adjoining piece of land.
1961
10th Sutton erect a ‘Rover Den’ and a ‘Senior Den’ on the Benhilton Gardens site.
1962
The first issue of the 10th Sutton (All Saints) Scout Group’s bi-monthly newsletter,
‘BUZZ’ is produced.
1965
The 10th Sutton drop the ‘(All Saints)’ from their name.
Councilor F. G. Moore accepts invitation to become the first President of the 10th
Sutton. 1966
The Chief Scout’s Advance Party report on the future of Scouting. The movement is
completely overhauled. ‘Wolf Cubs’ become ‘Cub Scouts’. ‘Boy Scouts’ become
‘Scouts’. ‘Senior Scouts’ and the younger ‘Rover Scouts’ become ‘Venture Scouts’.
‘Rover Scouts’, officially, cease to exist.
There are not enough members of either the 1st, 9th or 10th Sutton to form a
Venture Unit of their own. As a result, a joint unit is formed serving the three
Groups - the ‘1910 Unit’.
1967
The two leaders of ‘1910’ that originate from the 10th Sutton step down from the
Unit during its first year of operation. This leaves the 10th’s Ventures feeling as
‘outsiders’ since the activities that the Unit run do not cater for them in many ways -
including financially and locations.
The 10th’s Venture Scouts break away from the joint unit and, because of no leaders,
there ceases to be an official unit with the 10th. Due to their age, they cannot join
the ‘Rover’ Crew, and so register as a service team with the District. This leaves no
‘senior section’ for the 10th’s Scouts to enter when they leave the Troop.
1968 - The Leadup to Amalgamation
During 1968, proposals are made that the 9th and 10th Sutton Scout Groups
amalgamate. The likely name for the new group is the ‘1st Benhill’.
A joint meeting of the Group Councils of the 9th & 10th Sutton is held at the end of
June 1968. (The ‘Group Council’ was the equivalent of the current ‘Group Executive’)
The Patrol Leaders’ Council of the 10th Sutton report in the June edition of ‘BUZZ’
that they will be sad at the loss of the 10th Sutton, but will back the new venture if
it is in the best interests of Scouting. They also report that the colour of the new
scarf is not popular!
During the summer, the joint Scouters’ committee decide to go ahead with the
amalgamation. By a vote, the Scouters of the two groups decide on the name for the
new Group as ‘1st North Sutton’. Their sub-committee decide on a scarf colour of
‘Silver-Grey’. This is reported in the August edition of ‘BUZZ’. The new scarves are
not ‘brought in’ but made ‘in house’ by Adeline Hayzen.
Although not officially registered as the new Group, the Groups start the
amalgamation process, with Paul Richardson stepping down as the GSL of 10th
Sutton to concentrate on his duties as the District Commissioner and Stan Duke
taking the reins of the new Group. Stan takes the name ‘Chief’ as used by Paul
Richardson when he was GSL of 10th Sutton.
The Cub Scout packs take their new names of ‘Hunt’ (Friday - the former 9th
Sutton’s pack), ‘Hillary’ (Thursday - the former ‘A’ pack of the 10th Sutton) and
‘Tensing’ (Monday - the former ‘B’ pack of the 10th Sutton). They are named after
the team that first conquered Mt. Everest in 1953.
Hunt is run by Bernard Shaw, Hillary by Carole Beckett and Tensing by Emily
Richardson.
The Troops take the names ‘Monday Troop’ and ‘Tuesday Troop’ as they meet on
these respective days and the single Venture Unit is known just by this name.
Monday Troop forms, being made up from Cubs from the three packs and 5 boys
transferring from the 10th’s Scout Troop. They have their 1st meeting on October
7th.
Monday Troop is run by Stan Duke (‘Hathi’) and Tuesday Troop by Colin Hayzen
(‘Skip’).
The Venture Unit had been the first part of the new Group to function effectively.
Commencing in late May, the lads from the 9th and 10th units had been meeting
together and on 14th May 1968, the programme of the new Venture Unit had been
published.. The Venture Unit is run by Ken Baker and meets on Friday evenings. The Venture
‘Den’ is at Stayton Road and their ‘Store’ is at Benhilton Gardens.
In October, the first new members are invested into the new Group. These are Colin
Button, Simon Brodzky, Trevor Leach, Mark Miller & Philip Strutt who join Hillary
Pack; Geoffrey Ames, Alan Frost, Brian Frost, Stephen Dale, Tony Jones & David
Tapolazay who join Tensing Pack; and John Crane & Stephen Smith who join Hunt
Pack.
1969
On the 31st January, the Group Councils of the 9th and 10th hold their final, joint,
meeting. Immediately afterwards, the first Group Council of the 1st North Sutton is
held.
The new Group Council’s officers are:
Chairman Ron Killip
Treasurer Jim Hume
President Councilor Frederick Moore
(Acting) Secretary Mrs. Edie Bottomly
Chaplain Rev. Peter Penwarden
The Chairman of the Supporters Association is Mr. S. G. Alexander
After the official handing over of the 9th and 10th’s assets to the new Group at the
beginning of the year, the 1st North Sutton Scout Group is officially registered on
February 13th.
Census Figures show the Group at over the 120 mark with signs of increasing. The
new 1st North Sutton is the 2nd largest Group in the District. There are 103 boys
excluding the leaders (62 Cub Scouts, 34 Scouts and 7 Venture Scouts).
The Venture Unit gets off to a flying start with an active programme. Events include
Mountain Walking in North Wales and the District Handball competition which they
lost. The Unit report in the Group newsletter that ‘....and yes, the 4th Worcester Part
won. (Surprise, Surprise!).’ Their loss of this competition is tempered by the Unit
winning the District Swimming Trophy.
The Troops plan an active programme, including camps at Easter (Longridge, the
National Scout Boating Centre), at Whitsun and in the Summer in the Bournemouth
area.
The Packs continue with the 10th Sutton’s annual Whitsun camp at Angmering,
Sussex. This is a joint camp with Cubs from North Richmond.
The Supporters’ Association hold a number of events, including a Cheese & Wine
Party, Jumble Sales and continue with the 10th Sutton’s Annual ‘Autumn Fair’ at
Benhilton School.
Plans are taking shape to build a new Headquarters.
Stan Duke steps down from the running of Monday Troop when Ivan Gunn becomes
as SL (‘Skipper’). Emily Richardson steps down as CSL of Tensing Pack. Tensing is without a CSL and
is run by the ACSLs, Adeline Hayzen (Bagheera) and Vanessa Lambert (Kim).
Sylvia Becker takes over as BUZZ editor from Ron Killip, editor of BUZZ at the 10th
Sutton.
Colin Hayzen, ‘Skip’ of Tuesday Troop is a Contingent Leader of Queen’s Scout Award
holders at the national St. George’s Day Parade at Windsor Castle.
Group President, Councilor F. G. Moore becomes Mayor of the London Borough of
Sutton. The Cubs and Scouts of the Group form a Guard of Honour’ at the Civic
Service held for the new Mayor,
The Troops have a summer camp at ‘Camp Mohawk’, the U.S.A.F. Youth Camp at
Tidsbury, Wiltshire.
The ‘Rover Crew’, ‘reforms’ to become the ‘Service Team’ and adapts to the new rules
by adopting the new uniforms, accepting associate members and females into their
ranks. They remain a joint team with the 5th Sutton.
1970
Census figures show 113 boys excluding leaders (66 Cub Scouts, 40 Scouts and 7
Venture Scouts)
Waste Paper is collected to help pay for the Troops to go to Summer Camp as well as
subsidize many of their events and training.
Mr. H. (Bert) Wallace takes over as Group Secretary from Mrs. Edie Bottomley
BUZZ reports that a Scouter with Monday Troop ‘...Foolishly joined in with the lads
in a game of British Bulldogs and managed to break his rib!’
The Venture Unit raise funds for the Group by collecting postage stamps from all
members of the Group and selling them through adverts in ‘Stamp Weekly’. This
proves to be a profitable exercise.
The Group plays host to a visit from the 1st Bovington (Services) Scout Troop.
Mr S.G Alexander steps down as Chairman of the Supporters’ Association. Mr. J.
Spence takes over.
The Troops hold a summer camp at ‘Great Tower’, the National Scout Campsite on
the edge of Lake Windermere in the Lake District. This camp is held jointly with the
Troop from the 3rd Cheam. The weather for this camp is described by all as ‘Awful’
with the sun making an appearance on only one day - and it even rained on that day
as well!
Three members of the Venture Unit hold a summer camp in Iceland jointly with a
Venture Scout from the 5th Sutton.
Group President, Councilor Frederick Moore receives the Chief Scout’s award of the
‘Silver Acorn’ for distinguished services to Scouting. Brian Fisher also receives the
‘Medal of Merit’
‘Skipper’ Ivan Gunn receives a black eye playing ‘British Bulldogs’. As a result, this
game gets banned at Monday Troop......but only for a few weeks!
Stan Duke steps down as GSL. No replacement is immediately available and the
Group has no GSL. The GSL’s responsibilities are handled by Ron Killip and Paul
Richardson. 1971
Census figures show 119 boys excluding leaders (70 Cub Scouts, 40 Scouts and 9
Venture Scouts)
Mr. H (Bert) Wallace steps down as Group Secretary. Mrs. Olive Haine takes over.
In May, the Group Chairman, Ron Killip, steps down. No replacement is immediately
found.
In BUZZ, ‘Skip’ and ‘Skipper’, the SLs of the Troops launch a competition to give the
Troops more inspiring names. As much as anything, they report, ‘What if “Tuesday
Troop” moves to Friday - this would be rather confusing!’. The BUZZ appeal is for
two ‘complementary names, like “Armstrong” and “Aldrin” but preferably British (All
stand and sing: “Rule Britannia”!!) ’. They also ask for names that come from an
‘escapade which required sacrifice, daring, skill, determination and other such
qualities possessed by Scout Leaders’.
The Group undertakes a successful overseas expedition to Italy - continuing the
policy of the 10th Sutton by having an overseas expedition every 3 years. The
expedition leader is ‘Skip’ Colin Hayzen. The expedition is attended by 21 Scouts (14
‘Tuesday’, 7 ‘Monday’) 2 Venture Scouts, 2 Scouters and 8 ‘Civilians’. The trip took
15 months to plan, had a turnover in excess of £1,600 and required 47 meetings to
be held beforehand. All who go say the effort was well worth it!
Those not going to Italy hold a Summer .Camp at Walton Firs. which is led by
‘Skipper’ Ivan Gunn and is attended by 12 Scouts and 4 Venture Scouts
Brian Fisher takes over as CSL of Tensing Pack, leaving his role as ACSL of Hunt Pack.
Sylvia Becker steps down as editor of BUZZ, Bill Tate takes over.
Brian Woollett takes over as Chairman of the Group Supporters’ Association from
Mr. J. Spence
The cover of ‘BUZZ’, the Group’s magazine is featured in the November issue of
‘Scouting’ magazine in an article about Group Newsletters.
In November, Mr. Jim Wriggly takes over as Group Chairman.
Rev. Peter Penwarden steps down as Group Chaplain at the end of the year. Rev. Ian
Johnson takes over.
1972
Census figures show 137 boys excluding leaders (72 Cub Scouts, 51 Scouts and 14
Venture Scouts)
After over a year without a GSL, Ivan Gunn steps down as SL of Monday Troop to
become the Group’s GSL, taking the name ‘Chief’ as used by he predecessors. John
Moreley takes over as SL.
Paul Richardson, former GSL of the 10th Sutton, District Commissioner of Sutton &
Cheam, who has been acting as GSL to the 1st North Sutton during the time without
a GSL is appointed to the position of Borough Commissioner.
The Scout Troops take names. Monday Troop becomes ‘Gurkha’ and Tuesday Troop
becomes ‘Chindit’. The Gurkhas are the soldiers in the British Army that come from
Nepal and the Chindits were the British Forces that undertook the undercover/Jungle
warfare against Japan in Burma during the 2nd World War.
The plans for a new HQ are submitted for planning permission. The plans involve a
new 50’ x 30’ hall with kitchen, cloakrooms, a small hall, a Scouters’ room and stores
running down the side. The new hall is planned for Benhilton Gardens and financed
by the sale of the Stayton Road site. This will require that the whole Group operates
out of Stayton Road during the development. The planning application is rejected.
The Group holds a ‘Gang Show’ at Queen Mary’s Hospital for Children.
Brian Woollett steps down as Chairman of the Supporters Association to take over at
VSL after a period when the Unit did not have a leader. Father Ian Johnson (the
Group Chaplain) becomes AVSL at the same time.
Geoff Binns becomes chairman of the Supporters Association.
Summer Camp is held in Oxford. It is a joint camp with some German Scouts who
then stay with the Group in Sutton for a week after the camp.
Fire causes major damage to the Stayton Road HQ. The Supporters’ area, the
Venture Den, the store and a quarter of the roof of the main hall were destroyed,
along with significant damage to the Scouters’ room and the remainder of the Hall.
The fire would have been much more serious if it was not for Bernard Shaw, who was
painting his house in Stayton Road, spotted the fire and raised the alarm. Damage is
estimated at over £2000.
Repairs are made to the Hall, despite the plans to sell the site and build a new HQ at
Benhilton Gardens. This is because the site will need to fully host the Group during
the development. A double garage is built to hold the stores. The Group holds its first Fishing Competition.
Adeline Hayzen steps down from making the Group Scarves. Mrs. Haxton takes over
temporarily.
Graham Killip becomes the first Venture Scout in the Group to gain
the Queen’s Scout Award.
1973
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 71
Scouts 54
Venture Scouts 13
Leaders 17
Total 155
Bill Tate steps down as BUZZ editor. No replacement immediately available and so
Ivan Gunn, GSL, takes over temporarily.
John Morley steps down as SL of Gurkha Troop. Ron Norman takes over.
The 1st North Sutton start their ‘Own’ Service Crew. (as opposed to the joint ‘10-5’
Service crew which was a hang-over from the 10th Sutton.) The Crew meets for the
first time on 29th April and meets on Alternate Wednesdays. The Crew Leader is
Peter Pullen.
A grant application for £20,000 for the next financial year is made towards the cost
of the re-development of Benhilton Gardens. Whilst awaiting the award of the grant
aid, the Group starts to agree a price with the builder. The grant aid application is
refused.
The Group makes an offer to buy the Church Hall in Stayton Road. After discussions
with the Church P.C.C., the offer is turned down.
The Troop Summer Camp is held at Broadstone Warren, a Scout Camp Site in the
Ashdown Forest, near East Grinstead, Sussex.
Mark Parsons joins the Group as ASL with Gurkha Troop.
Geoff Binns steps down as Chairman of the Supporters Association. Geoff Seaton
takes over
Rev Ian Johnson steps down as Group Chaplain and AVSL.
The Service Crew, with help from some of the Section Leaders and some Venture
Scouts, re-roof the Stayton Road HQ, along with the replacement of rotten flooring
and walls, fixing the lights and re-decorating in white and ‘1NS Grey’
Ivan Gunn resigns as GSL with effect from December. After much discussion, he
reconsiders and an AGSL is appointed to take some of the many tasks that lie on
Ivan’s shoulders. The new AGSL is Geoff Seaton, the Chairman of the Supporters
Association, a position from which he steps down.
John Walters takes over as Chairman of the Supporters’ Association. 1974
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 75
Scouts 47
Venture Scouts 12
Service Crew 4
Leaders 18
Total 156
Colin Hayzen steps down as SL of Chindit Troop. Derek Eastgate takes over as SL.
In April, an outline application is made to build at the rear of the Stayton Road site.
As the 2 existing halls will now be used for the foreseeable future, the Venture Unit
and Service Crew work over a long period rejuvenating these buildings.
At the AGM it is reported that the Packs have had a very successful year - numbers
are up and there have been over 90 badges gained, including 4 Gold Arrows. Troop
numbers, however, are slightly down.
Mark Parsons, ASL with Gurkha Troop, takes over as QM.
On May 23rd, Frederick. G. Moore, First President of the 1st North Sutton and first &
only President of 10th Sutton dies. The Group reports in BUZZ:
Throughout the entire life of the 1st North Sutton Scout
Group and the 10th Sutton previously, he gave tremendous
guidance and support. guidance and support.
He leaves a void He leaves a void He leaves a void May he rest in peace May he rest in peace May he rest in peace
Jim Hume steps down as Group Treasurer.
After acting as Treasurer for funds raised for the Andorra Expedition, George Button
takes over as Group Treasurer, with effect from the Group’s AGM which is held at the
Church Hall in Stayton Road.
Father Philip Hendry becomes Group Chaplain
The Group holds its first ‘Family Camp’ at Walton Firs.
Shirley Dalton steps down as BUZZ editor. Christine Seaton takes over.
Both Troops meet on Tuesday evenings to promote closer links and joint activities.
They run the same programme, but on different weeks. This uses the ‘pool’ of
Scouter skills to the maximum and allows all the Scouters to work with both Troops.
Continuing the 3-year policy for overseas expeditions, the Group holds an Overseas
Expedition to Andorra in the Pyrenees. Large fundraising effort takes place to
subsidize those going. Group fundraising is suspended whilst this is undertaken. The
expedition is led by ‘Akela’ Brian Fisher.
Those not going to Andorra attend the Troops’ UK summer camp at Walton Firs.
Ron Norman steps down as SL of Gurkha Troop. Mark Parsons takes over as SL.
The Venture Unit make their own canoes in preparation for planned water activities.
Vandals break in to the Benhilton Gardens HQ. They cause serious damage to the
hall and items that are ready for the Autumn Fair. The Venture Unit’s recently made
canoes are ruined.
The Group holds its own Swimming Gala, however attendance is poor from all the
sections.
Due to Scouter difficulties at the Salvation Army sponsored 14th Sutton Scout
Group, the Service Crew run their Scout Troop for several months. 1975
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 75
Scouts 48
Venture Scouts 13
Service Crew 5
Leaders 23
Total 164
After the issues regarding the ‘Pylbrook’, the drainage stream that runs through the
Stayton Road site are resolved, a full planning application is lodged with the council
at the beginning of the year
Nigel Hillier becomes QM after Mark Parsons steps down to concentrate on running
Gurkha Troop.
Benhilton Gardens is re-roofed. 2 weeks later, 2 12/13 year olds are spotted on the
new roof ripping 2 holes in the new felt. They are not caught.
Mrs. Moore, wife of Mr F. G. Moore, the Group President who died last year, accepts
an invitation to become Life Vice-President.
Planning permission is received for a new hall at the rear of Stayton Road. The
Group forms a sub-committee to manage the project. The committee consists of Ken
Baker (Project Manager & Advisor), George Button (Finance), Brian Fisher (Electrical
& Power), Ivan Gunn (overall coordinator), Bob Marten (Carpentry & Glazing), Peter
Pullen (Plumbing & Drains), Geoff Seaton (Decorating & Finishing) & Jim Wriggley
(Chairman).
Nigel Hillier, Group QM, declares an ‘Amnesty’ for the return of any items of Group
equipment that is missing from the stores - ‘no questions will be asked’.
After the success of the first ‘FamCam’, the Group hold its 2nd Family Camp, again at
Walton Firs.
Building work in the new hall at Stayton Road commences. A Compton ‘B’ building is
ordered, the base laid and the building erected. These items alone cost £4,100. The
first issue of ‘Our New Hall News’ is published which gives details of progress and the
plans for the new hall and site layout.
The Autumn fair is now organized by Betty Button after Jill Thomas steps down from
running this event.
On 2nd November, as the Group leaves All Saints Church after a Church Parade,
smoke is spotted coming from the area near the Benhilton Gardens HQ by the
Group’s youngest Cub Scout, Leslie Button. The Venture Scout Den and the Green
Hut (The former Rover Den) are found to be completely ablaze. The efforts of Ivan
Gunn, the GSL, George Button, the Group Treasurer and Colin Button, Senior Patrol
Leader of Chindit Troop prevent the fire spreading to the main hall and save the
main building until the Fire Brigade arrive. The cause of the fire is unknown, but
some lads were seen running away by local residents shortly before the fire was
discovered
The Venture Units suffer the most as a result of the fire, having their billiard table
and an almost finished go-cart destroyed.
The 14th Sutton’s Scout Troop closes. Their pack now ‘feeds’ the 1st North Sutton.
At the end of the year, the Supporters’ Association’s committee, who raise the funds
to run the Group, contains 20 members
Jeffrey Killip gains the Queen’s Scout Award. 1976
Cub Scouts celebrate their Diamond Jubilee
Bernard Shaw, Cub Scout Leader of Hunt Pack has to leave the Group as his job is
moved to Peterborough. The Front Hall at Stayton Road is re-named from ‘Mafeking
Hall’ to ‘Shaw Hall’ in honour of both Bernard and his brother Bert, who was the GSL
of the 9th Sutton at the time of Group’s formation. The renaming ceremony is
carried out on the day of his last Pack meeting with the Group.
Brian Fisher, CSL of Tensing Pack, takes over as CSL of Hunt Pack. David Curgenven,
ASCL of Tensing Pack takes over as CSL of Tensing.
The new hall is completed at Stayton Road at a total cost of £6,500 and officially
opened at the AGM on 7th May. It is named ‘Moore Hall’ after Frederick Moore, a
former Mayor of the London Borough of Sutton and the Group’s first President. The
hall is officially opened by the longest serving Scouter (Brian Fisher) and the newest
invested Cub Scout (Andrew Walters).
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 73
Scouts 52
Venture Scouts 9
Service Crew & Leaders 30
Total 164
At the AGM, Ivan Gunn announces the ‘GSLs Award’ which would be presented
annually commencing at the next AGM to a member of one of the sections who has
given that little bit extra above everyone else - it is not for the person who has got
the most badges. Nominations can be received from anyone in the Group. A trophy,
the ‘Gunn Cup’ is presented to the Group for this purpose.
The Group holds a Donkey Derby at the Reigate Road Recreation Ground (behind the
‘Plough’ public house) on 10th July. This is run by the Group and ‘Other Scout
Groups & Charities’ are invited to attend with stalls etc. Despite all the effort, the
Group only raises about £200 since all the expenses fall on the Group. Many of the
other charities that attend make significant sums.
The troop summer camp is held on a farm near Torquay in Devon at the end of July
and is run be ‘Skip’ Derek Eastgate.
Benhilton Gardens suffers from the combination of a long hot summer with no rain
and the continued attention of vandals. Despite the gallant efforts that saved the
main hall in November the previous year, in the summer vandals return and the main
hall is destroyed by fire, along with all Chindit Troop and Tensing Pack’s equipment.
The Group is fortunate that the new hall in Stayton Road is ready as all meetings
must now be held at Stayton Road - this would not have been possible just with the
old hall.
As a result of the loss of the Benhilton Gardens HQ, Chindit Troop are forced not
only to move to Stayton Road, but also change the night of their meetings to
Thursday. Many of the joint activities with Gurkha Troop now cease to happen.
David Curgenven temporarily steps down as CSL of Tensing Pack due to his work
pattern as a pilot for Laker Airways preventing him from attending as often as he
would like. Geoff Seaton, AGSL, takes over as CSL of Tensing until David’s work
pattern settles down. 1977
Queen’s Silver Jubilee year.
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 61
Scouts 50
Venture Scouts 10
Total 121
Bernard Shaw, vice president of the Group and former leader of Hunt Pack and the
9th Sutton’s Pack receives the Silver Acorn ‘In recognition of Specially Distinguished
Service’ in the St. George’s Day honours.
The Venture Unit becomes one of the first Venture Units in the country to ‘go mixed’.
The first Female Venture Scouts are Wendy Haine, Tracy Woollett & Beverly Norris
Cub Camp at Angmering, Sussex with cubs from 1st North Richmond & 14th Sutton.
Family Camp is held at Walton Firs with 1st North Richmond
Ann Stead joins Hunt Pack as a uniformed instructor with the name ‘Hahti’.
Group cleans up ‘Pig Alley’ in a big community service event. This ‘Group Good Turn’
generates huge publicity for Group.
Maintenance work is carried out on the Headquarters by the ‘Job Creation Scheme’.
Continuing the 3-year cycle, the Group holds an overseas expedition to Kempten in
Bavaria, West Germany. Fund raising in the months beforehand by parents &
supporters towards the costs raises £600.80. The expedition is a success. The Group
links up with a local Scout Group and a return visit is arranged. The expedition is led
by ‘Skip’ Mark Parsons.
David Curgenven steps down permanently from Tensing Pack. There is still no
replacement available and Geoff Seaton continues to run the pack until a permanent
replacement can be found.
After losing all their equipment and their ‘home’ when the Benhilton Gardens HQ was
destroyed by fire, Chindit Troop never really recovered. Numbers fall to a handful
and a new start is required. At the end of the year Chindit Troop is closed with the
last meeting held on the regular night of Thursday.
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Richard Jenner, Nicky Mailer &
Jim Owen.
1978
On the 2nd Wednesday of January, a new Troop is started from the remains of
Chindit Troop. The new Troop is ‘Harrier Troop’. The new troop gets off to a good
start and within four months numbers are up, attendance is good and Alan Hodge
gets the troop its first ‘Chief Scouts Award’.
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 64
Scouts 51
Venture Scouts 13
Total 128
Christine Seaton steps down as editor of BUZZ. Betty Button agrees to take over.
The ‘Jubilee Seat’ is opened outside the Stayton Road HQ by Len Griffiths, the
Borough Youth & Community Services Organiser.
The first ‘Scouts’ Own’ is held at the Stayton Road HQ on 5th March. This replaces
the ‘Church Parades’ that previously took place.
Jim Wrigley steps down as Group Chairman at the AGM. Helen Osbourne takes over.
The GSL’s award was presented to Cub Scout Michael Whyman.
George and Betty Button receive ‘Thanks badges’ from the Group for all their hard
work.
Cub Camp at Angmering, Sussex with cubs from 1st North Richmond, 14th Sutton
and 1st Brockham (an ex-cub leader from 1st North Sutton, Wendy Swan, now helps
run this pack)
Bernard Shaw (Vice President & former Akela of Hunt Pack) brings his new pack from
Peterborough to visit us and London for a week.
West German Scouts from Kempten hold Joint camp with the Group at Kingsdown
Scout Camp at Deal, followed by a week of ‘home hospitality’ with families of the
Group in Sutton. The Group is presented with a ‘Bavarian Cowbell’ by the German
Scouts to commemorate their visit.
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Bill Duckin, Stan Norris, Colin
Button & Geoff Ames. 1979
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 61
Scouts 48
Venture Scouts 18
Total 127
Scouts from both troops (a total of 4 patrols) hold a joint Summer Camp at Cornel
Farm in Snowdonia, North Wales. On the train going out, several Scouts have their
rucksacks stolen from the guards van - leaving them without their gear for the two
week camp. The minibus suffers mechanical problems on the way up and throughout
the camp as the gearbox gradually disintegrates.
AGSL, Geoff Seaton, leaves the Group to become GSL of 9th Cheam. Brian Woollett,
VSL, becomes AGSL.
In March, Tensing Pack move out of the Stayton Road HQ where they have been
holding their meetings since the Benhilton Gardens HQ was destroyed by fire in
1976. They move into their new home in the Adult Training Centre in Hillview Road.
This gives the group a presence on both sides of the main road once again. As a
result, numbers in the pack rise rapidly.
Ann Stead takes over from Geoff Seaton as Akela of Tensing Pack.
The GSL’s Award is awarded to Venture Scout Valerie Owen
Scout David Ewing takes part in the international World Jamboree. The event was
scheduled to take place in Iran, but the ‘Islamic Revolution’ causes the event to be
canceled. Instead, a number of smaller Jamborees are held around the world. David
goes with ‘Troop 27’ to ‘Sembrook’, the High Adventure Base in Maine, USA. This is a
national adventure base and David is the Patrol Leader of ‘Somers’ patrol.
Derek Eastgate steps down as SL of Harrier Troop to become ASL. Les Norris takes
over as SL.
On 12th October, Ron Killip, former Chairman of 10th Sutton, Former editor of
BUZZ at the 10th Sutton, Former Chairman of the Supporters’ Association at the
10th Sutton, former Chairman of the 1st North Sutton, former acting GSL of 1st
North Sutton, Group Press Officer and Leader of the Service Crew dies. Ron was a
guiding light to the 1st North Sutton through its formative years and is sadly missed
by the Group.
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Paul Woollett, Dave Jenner &
Nicky Shioleftou. 1980
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 64
Scouts 40
Venture Scouts 16
Total 120
Jim Wrigley receives a letter of commendation from the Chief Scout.
Cub Scout, Alex Slocombe, gets a letter of commendation from the County
Commissioner “for prompt action taken which was a credit to the Scout Movement”
Betty Button steps down as editor of BUZZ. Marion Killip takes over.
Jim Wrigley is appointed a vice-president of the Group.
The GSL’s Award is awarded to Gary Mitchell.
Gurkha Troop win the annual District Camping Competition.
The Venture Unit undertake an overseas expedition to the Black Forest in West
Germany.
Scouts from both troops (a total of 3 patrols) hold a joint Summer Camp on a farm
at Yeo Mill on the edge of Exemoor in North Devon.
The Group holds a Fishing Competition, organized by Peter Pullen of the Service
Crew.
Wendy Haine becomes the first Girl in the Group to gain the Queen’s
Scout Award, followed later in the year by Tracey Woollett.
1981
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 44
Scouts 41
Venture Scouts 10
Total 95
Ivan Gunn steps down as GSL on 9th January. Mark Parsons, Scout Leader of Gurkha
Troop takes over.
Gurkha Troop and Harrier Troop, despite both having healthy numbers, are forced to
merge into one Troop due to lack of leaders. Both names are dropped and the
section is known just as ‘The Scout Troop’ and is led by Les Norris, the former SL of
Harrier Troop. The combined Troop meets on Tuesday evenings.
Helen Osbourne steps down as Group Chairman at the AGM. Benny Mirehouse takes
over.
Mark Parsons, the GSL, announces that he has found it impossible to compare the
efforts of a Cub Scout with those of a Venture Scout and so the GSL’s Award is ‘split’
- an award for each section. The award winners are:
Cub Scout: Kevin Cook
Scout: Roland Walters
Venture Scout: Gary Mitchell
Annual Cub Camp at Angmering is washed out. Cubs are forced to abandon the site
after a few days and move to Brighton District’s site ‘Parkwood’ in the bunk-bedded
huts on the site.
Although officially 1 year late in the 3-year cycle for overseas camps, the Group holds
overseas expedition to Norway, during which the Minibus suffers a number of serious
breakdowns. The expedition is led by GSL Mark Parsons.
The Scouts from the Troop not going to Norway hold a Joint Summer Camp with 1st
Diss Scouts from Norfolk (The ASL of 1st Diss, Dave Locke, is an ex-ASL with Gurkha
Troop)
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Paul Thompson, Valerie Owen &
Fiona Hughes. 1982
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 43
Scouts 32
Venture Scouts 21
Total 96
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Cub Scout: Nigel Smith
Scout: Kevin Hoare
Venture Scout: Gary Mitchell
Benny Mirehouse steps down as Group Chairman.
A ‘Thanks Badge’ is presented to Carole Walters.
Scouts hold Summer camp at Great Tower Scout Camp on the banks of Lake
Windermere in the Lake District. It rains for 13 out of 15 days!
Les Norris steps down as Scout Leader. Until a designated Scout Leader can be
identified, Mark Parsons, the GSL, runs the Troop.
The Venture Unit win the ‘Mens’ team trophy in the District Venture Scout/Ranger
Guide 4 Hills Hike.
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Gary Mitchell & Ray Lawlor.
1983
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 47
Scouts 20
Venture Scouts 23
Total 90
Beavers start in the 1st North Sutton with the formation of Elk Colony which is run
by Jan Bradford.
In April, Paul Woollett takes over as Scout Leader.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Cub Scout: Simon Moss
Scout: Leslie Button
Venture Scout: Chris Morgan
After a year with the position vacant, Brian Woollett becomes the Group Chairman
after stepping down as Venture Scout Leader after 11 years.
Dave ‘Sid’ Jenner takes over as Venture Scout Leader.
The Group gets the 3-year cycle for overseas expeditions back ‘on-track’ by holding
an overseas expedition to Anecy in the French Maritime Alps.
The Venture Unit wins the District Venture Scout/Ranger Guide 4 Hills Hike
competition TWICE! The unit takes the ‘Mixed Team’ shield with an experienced
team (mainly from the previous year’s winning ‘Mens’ team) and the ‘Mens’ trophy
with an inexperienced team that has just ‘come up’ from the Troop.
Roland Walters gains the Queen’s Scout Award. 1984
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 37
Scouts 24
Venture Scouts 18
Total 79
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Cub Scout: Matthew Derret
Scout: Jason Crilly
Venture Scout: not presented
Due to demand, a second Beaver Colony is started. Moose Colony begins and is also
run by Jan Bradford.
1st Cub Scout Camp is held at Minster in Kent. The camp is run by Valerie Owen.
Chris Morgan gains the Queen’s Scout Award.
1985
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 55
Scouts 23
Venture Scouts 10
Total 88
Dave ‘Sid’ Jenner steps down as Venture Scout Leader. To replace him, Mark Parsons
steps down as GSL to become VSL. There is nobody available to take over as GSL.
Brian Woollett, Group Chairman, takes over as Scouter-in-Charge until a replacement
GSL can be found.
During a Training weekend, for the Iceland expedition, the Group’s Minibus suffers a
severe breakdown, requiring the top of the engine to be rebuilt. Venture Scouts
require a ‘rescue’ to get them home. 2 weeks later, when getting the van from the
garage in South Wales where the repairs had been carried out, the bottom of the
engine fails due to the higher stresses of having a rebuilt top. A completely new
engine is required.
The Venture Unit, jointly with 1st Byfleet Venture Unit (which is run by ex-1st North
Sutton Leaders), hold a successful overseas expedition to Iceland.
As nobody had been found to replace Mark parsons as GSL, Paul richardson, the
Borough Commissioner takes over as Acting GSL from Brian Woollett who had been
Scouter-in-Charge. 1986
Census Figures: Cub Scouts 51
Scouts 33
Venture Scouts 12
Total 96
The group buys an (almost) new minibus, a Freight Rover ‘Sherpa’. The existing
minibus is retained for use as a ‘Van’ to preserve the condition of the new minibus.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Cub Scout: Lee Holland
Scout: Scott Duff
Venture Scout: Alison Syrett
Paul Woollett gets married on 17th May and steps down as Scout Leader. At his
wedding, the Scout Troop form a ‘Guard of Honour’.
3 Venture Scouts (Leslie Button, Kevin Hoare and Andy Walters) and their leaders
(Mark Parsons, Jim Owen and Linda Saviel) take part in ‘Viking Venture’. A North Sea
ferry is chartered by the Scout Association and filled with 1300 Venture Scouts from
all over the UK and sets sail for Sweden where they ‘invade’ Gothenburg for 24 hours
before returning.
Venture Unit hold 2 Week camp at Great Tower Scout Camp on the banks of Lake
Windermere in the Lake District. The Scout Troop join them for the 2nd week.
Several Venture Scouts complete their Queen’s Scout Award Hike by starting at sealevel
and going over Scafell Pike, the highest point in England.
Mark Parsons steps down as Venture Scout Leader and leaves the Group, moving to
Preston. AVSL, Jim Owen, takes over as Venture Scout Leader.
Queen’s Scout Awards are gained by Peter Button & Leslie Button.
1987
Census Figures: Beaver Scouts 42
Cub Scouts 49
Scouts 17
Venture Scouts 11
Leaders 18
Total 137
After a significant period without a GSL, Paul Woollett offers his services and this is
accepted. Paul had started his Scouting career with the 1st North Sutton as a Cub
Scout, had progressed through the Group and had become a Queen’s Scout. He had
been an ASL and SL with the Troop and was known and respected throughout the
Group. After the years without leadership, Paul was seen as the ideal person to take
the helm as GSL.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout: Darren Ford
Cub Scout: Jon Melton
Scout: Jason Crilly
Venture Scout: Peter Button
Brian Woollett is presented with his Chief Scout’s Commendation and Ann Stead is
presented with her Long Service Decoration at the AGM.
Jim Owen steps down as Venture Scout Leader and leaves the Group. The Venture
Unit becomes leaderless. Former VSL, Brian Woollett stands in for 6 months while a
new leader is found. Leslie & Peter Button stay on in the Venture Unit for 6 months
past their official leaving date to keep numbers up and some experience within the
Unit.
After many years of the Group supporting Tom Hughs and his orphanage in Nepal,
Tom visits the Group. His visit consists of him using our hall as a ‘centre’ to allow his
friends from the army to visit him during the Saturday.
On the Sunday, 1st November, Tom is the Guest of Honour at a special Scouts’ Own
run by the Venture Unit with a theme of ‘International’. All of the sections
contribute towards the decoration of the hall by making flags from all around the
world. Tom presents the Group with a ‘Gurkha Khukri’ on which a plaque is mounted
that reads:
Presented by Tom Hughes Presented by Tom Hughes
To
1st North Sutton Scout Group 1st North Sutton Scout Group
“In Appreciation”The Sunday visit receives excellent coverage in the local papers.
Queen’s Scout Award gained by Alison Syrett
1988
Census Figures: Beaver Scouts 45
Cub Scouts 47
Scouts 19
Venture Scouts 3
Leaders 18
Total 132
Brian Woollett steps down as Group Chairman. Jan Ives takes over.
George Button receives Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Services.
The Group’s lads sell ‘bricks’ - oblong sheets of paper for Greater London Scouts’
effort for Great Ormond Street Hospital and raise just over £620 towards a leukemia
ward.
In July, the Group’s Scout Fellowship organise a ‘Family Camp’ at Walton Firs camp
site. It is a great success.
Gary Mitchell takes over as Venture Scout Leader.
Queen’s Scout Award gained by Kevin Cook & David West 1989
Census figures give a total of 123 plus 17 leaders.
In February, the Scout Troop visit Holland and establish a liason with the a Dutch
Scout Troop.
Jan Ives steps down as Group Chairman. Wendy Gunn takes over.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout James Buttress
Cub Scout: Gary Beach
Scout: Robert Lawlor
Venture Scout: Julie Haradence
‘Thanks Badges’ were presented to Linda Holland and Vanessa Kearnes.
1990
Census figures give a total of 109 plus 12 leaders.
After 17 years in the post, George Button steps downs as Group Treasurer at the
AGM. Stephen Dixon takes over the role.
George Button is appointed Group President.
Paul Woollett steps down as Group Scout Leader. Jan Bradford is appointed as the
new GSL and takes over at the end of the AGM.
Wendy Gunn steps down as Group Chairman. Nobody was available to take over.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Alex Neil
Cub Scout: Grant Walker
Scout: David Griffin
Venture Scout: Neil Childs
After a short period with no Chairman, Tony Pierce is appointed to the position.
Peter Platt takes over as VSL. (May be 1992 - it is reported in the 1990/91 annual
report) 1991
Census figures give a total of 119 plus 9 leaders.
After a demise in the numbers of parents willing to rais funds for the group and the
resulting drop in income, the Group is forced to instigate a £1 per month charge
from each boy towards the running of the Group.
Brian Fisher is awarded the Silver Acorn and this is presented to him at the AGM.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Not awarded - no single boy stood out
Cub Scout: Gareth Evans
Scout: David Rynne
Venture Scout: Michael Gunn
Family Camp is run in July
1992
Census figures give a total of 99 plus 16 leaders.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Richard Hoare
Cub Scout: Aubrey Clarke
Scout: Stephen Bradford
Venture Scout: Anna Bradford
The Scout Troop takes the name ‘Gurkha Troop’ - from one of the two Troops that
merged to for the Group’s single Troop. (This could be next year - it is reported in
the 1992/3 annual report)
A Joint summer camp is held with the Scouts and Venture Scouts at a farm site near
Frome. The camp was a water based camp with all the Scouts, Venture Scouts and
Leaders recieving training in kayaking from instructors from Frome Canoe Club. All
gained their BCU 1 Star Award (including Percy the Pig - the Unit Mascot and resident
daredevil!) 1993
Census figures give a total of 111 plus 14 leaders. Numbers are up in to Troop and
Units. Beavers also increase, but the numbers of Cubs decline.
In January, Gurhka Troop move to a new night - Friday instead of Tuesday due to the
work commitments ‘Skip’ Jeff Cunningham.
Tensing Pack win the District Chess Tournament.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Paul Naylor
Cub Scout: Ashley Clarke
Scout: Ross Hooper
Venture Scout: not awarded - everyone stood out equally
Carole Beckett, CSL of Hillary pack since the Group’s formation and CSL at the 10th
Sutton beforehand, receives the Silver Acorn ‘In recognition of Specially
Distinguished Service’ in the St. George’s Day honours. Carole and Brian Fisher Stead
also receive their Bars to their Long Service Decorations.
Summer Camp for the Scouts and Venture Scouts is held once again at Frome. Those
who gained their BCU 1 Star Aware the previous year gain their BCU 2 Star Award.
The remainder gain their BCU 1 Star
In September, after Jeff Cunningham steps down as SL of Gurhka Troop, Peter Platt
takes over as SL.
After Peter Platt’s change of role to SL, Julie Harradance takes over as VSL.
1994
Census figures give a total of 121 plus 16 leaders.
Bernard Shaw, Akela of Hunt Pack when the Group was formed and after whom ‘Shaw
Hall’ at Stayton road was named died early in 1994.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout David Johnson
Cub Scout: Ian Mitchell
Scout: Colin Mitchell
Venture Scout: Russel Hicks
‘Thanks Badges’ were presented to Barbara Middleton and to Terry Gorley
The Venture Scouts have their Summer Camp going Youth Hosting across Exmoor
The two leaders of Moose Colony leave the Group to join another Group in the
District. They not only leave the Group without leaders for Moose, but take all of
the Moose beaver Scouts with them to their new Group.
Maggie Bleksley takes over as the new leader of Moose Colony and successfully starts
to rebuild numbers.
The proposed Autumn Fair, an annual event that has been run since before the group
was formed is canceled due to lack of help. 1995
Census figures give a total of 103 plus 12 leaders.
Jan Bradford steps down as GSL at the AGM. Nobody can be found to take over and
so once again, the 1st North Sutton stumbles along with no Group Scout Leader.
Brian Fisher takes the role of Scouter-In-Charge.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Peter Wright and Keshav Seegobin
Cub Scout: Peter Haseler
Scout: Andrew Gorley
Venture Scout: not awarded - everyone stood out equally
Scout, Peter gent, is selected to attend the World Jamboree in the Netherlands. Ewan
Frater is selected as a reserve.
The Troop undertake a Summer Camp to Walesby Forest. During the camp,
fortunately when most of the lads were off site on a visit, a forest fire sweeps across
the site. All the tentage and personal equipment is destroyed. The troop return to
Sutton. Their only possessions that remain are the clothes they are wearing.
Ray Shaw offers his services as GSL and this is accepted. Ray is invested at the end of
the year.
1996
Census figures give a total of 98 plus 14 leaders.
Jan Bradford receives the Chief Scout’s Comendation for Good Services.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout Matthew Griffin
Cub Scout: Richard Brill
Scout: Anthony Fuller and Anthony Platt
Venture Scout: Robert Ives
The Scouts and Venture Scouts have a joint Summer Camp on the Isle of Wight 1997
Census figures give a total of 99 plus 14 leaders.
The AGM becomes an ‘OUT’ event. It is now held on a Saturday away from the
Group’s premises and is combined with a Fun-Day, Group Barbecue and Camp Fire at
Park Farm, Banstead.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout
Cub Scout:
Scout:
Venture Scout: Ross Hooper
Everest Venture Scout Unit hold a joint summer camp with the Scouts from the 11th
Wallington Troop. This is held at a bunkhouse in the Peak District. Activities
included climbing horseriding, a visit to an underground mine where the ‘blue John’
semi-precious stone is minedm and hill walking on the Mann Torr range and Kinder
Scout.
Peter Platt steps down as Scout Leader. Claire West takes over.
Family Camp re-starts as an annual event. 1st Camp held at Perry Wood Campsite
near Horley, Surrey.
The Beaver Scouts cease to wear their turquoise scarves and instead wear the
Blue/Gold scarves of the Group.
The ‘Service Crew’ starts to be planned under the interim direction of Louise Parker.
First full members of the Service Crew, Leslie Button, Peter Platt and Ron Barker, are
invested at the final Scouts’ Own of the Year.
At the Venture Unit’s Christmas camp, held at Perry Wood, a number of Scouts are
invested into Everest Venture Scout Unit. Everest Venture Scout Unit numbers are
now up to 15.
1998
The annual census figures, the Group shows the biggest growth in the District, with
numbers smashing through the 100 barrier (was 99, now 112)
Claire West steps down at Scout Leader. Ray Shaw (GSL) steps in to help the
leadership team until a new Scout Leader can be found.
Everest Venture Scout Unit win District Handball Competition.
The Service Crew ‘takes off’. Numbers grow and they play a significant part in the
planning and execution of the activities of the Group. Leslie Button is elected as the
first Chairman of the Service Crew.
At the AGM, the GSL’s Awards are awarded to:
Beaver Scout
Cub Scout:
Scout: Ian Mitchell
Venture Scout: Mark Ronan and Luke Archer
After several years in which the idea of a ‘Welcome Pack’ should be produced, the
Service Crew step in to take on this task. Their Chairman, Leslie Button, takes on the
majority of this task and leaflets are produced for each section, as well as leaflets
that cover the Group as a whole.
The Group gets an Internet presence. A World-Wide-Web ‘home page’ is produced by
Peter Platt, Secretary of the Service Crew and County IT advisor. It’s address (URL)
is http:\\members.xoom.com\1ns. The site soon gets visits from Scouts from all
around the world.
Brian Fisher, AGSL, is awarded the Bar to the Silver Acorn in the national St. George’s
Day honours.
AGM/Funday/BBQ/Campfire is repeated at Park Farm. The ‘OUT’ nature of event is
extended with the Service Crew having an overnight camp afterwards.
Since its foundation, the Service Crew had been looking for a name and a symbol to
identify themselves with. As a result, the Service Crew renames itself ‘Tigris Service
Crew’ and adopts a tiger as their symbol.
Everest Venture Scout Unit hold overseas expedition to the Kandersteg International
Scout Centre in Switzerland. Expedition is run jointly with the 11th Wallington (St.
Elpheges) Scout Troop and is a resounding success. Family Camp held at Bentley Copse Campsite, Near Sheere, Surrey with a theme of
‘Pirates’. Despite less than perfect weather, the camp is a resounding success with
well over 100 campers.
Hugh Harris takes over as SL of Gurkha Troop. Hugh has been a member of the
Service Crew for some time and has run a number of Troops before, including a
‘Services’ Troops while serving with the RAF regiment in Germany and the Falkland
Islands.
After taking an active role in the Group as the Chairman of Tigris Service Crew, Leslie
Button is appointed as the Group’s 2nd AGSL to assist Ray with the older sections and
Tigris Service Crew.
Everest VSU enter the County Venture Scout Night Hike Competition. Against a high
quality of competition from Venture Units across the county, Everest win not only
the ‘novice’ trophy for teams that have not entered before, but also win the ‘mens’s’
trophy outright.
The Queen’s Scouts of the 1st North Sutton
1972 Graham Killip 1975 Jeffrey Killip
1977 Richard Jenner 1978 Bill Duckin
Nicky Mailer Stan Norris
Jim Owen Colin Button
Geoff Ames.
1979 Paul Woollett 1980 Wendy Haine
Dave Jenner Tracey Woollett
Nicky Shioleftou.
1981 Paul Thompson 1982 Gary Mitchell
Valerie Owen Ray Lawlor
Fiona Hughes
1983 Roland Walters 1984 Chris Morgan
1986 Peter Button 1987 Alison Syrett
Leslie Button
1988 Kevin Cook
David West Glossary Of Terms & Abbreviations
GSL Group Scout Leader
AGSL Assistant Group Scout Leader
VSL Venture Scout Leader
AVSL Assistant Venture Scout Leader
SL Scout Leader (known as ‘Skipper’ or ‘Skip’)
ASL Assistant Scout Leader
CSL Cub Scout Leader (known as ‘Akela’)
ACSL Assistant Cub Scout Leader
BSL Beaver Scout Leader
ABSL Assistant Beaver Scout Leader
DC District Commissioner
ADC Assistant District Commissioner. Usually with their responsibility in
brackets. e.g. ADC(VS) for Venture Scouts, ADC(LT) for Leader
Training etc.
CC County Commissioner
ACC Assistant County Commissioner. As with ADC’s brackets show area of
appointment.
A ‘tracking’ sign that means you have reached the end of the trail and the
person laying the trail has ‘gone home’. This symbol appears on the grave
stone of ‘B-P’ at Nyeri in Kenya and is used by Scouts worldwide to announce
that a fellow Scout has passed away having reached the end of their trail and
‘gone home’.
Thing to put in, but I do not know dates, details etc.
Scout Leaders. Peter Paul
Eric Wilson
Jeff Cunningham
Others??
When did Hunt Pack fold
How long did Tensing operate from the hall in Hillview Road and dates?
When was the current hall at Benhilton Gardens put up. When was Water
and electricity finally installed and when was the toilets built.
Between Gary Mitchell and Jan, who ran the unit and what dates.
When did Brian Fisher & Carole Beckett get their Silver Acorns.
When did the Beaver Colonies start.
When did the Beaver Leaders start/step down and who were they
When did the Group get the Minibuses and when did we have the disastrous
problems with them?
Need list of: All leaders the group has had
All executive officers the group has had
All medals, commendations etc. and dates.
Need lots of history from 1980 onwards and during early nineties.
When did the 14th Sutton close and the 1st North Sutton absorb their cubs?
Any press cuttings please.
We are missing some recipiants of the GSL’s Award - They are not alway
smentions in the AGM minutes
When did Autumn Fair move location (from Benhilton School to Robin Hood
School, to the Green?) We are missing copies of ‘BUZZ’ from 1980 onwards. Anyone with copies
please ?
When did our own Service Crew sod-off (Mark Parsons, Bill Ducking, the
Dolans, the Jenners, the Chappells etc.)
When was the Scout Fellowship started and when was it officially disbanded?
When did Everest Venture Scout Unit take this name.
When did the Unit start adopting PIGS
When did the Group change to the current scarf colours?
When did Betty Button start making the grey scarves?
When did the grey of the scarves change?
Also, others contributions please.
Printed on :16 February 2012 09:37 PM
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