About Us

Were do we get our name from?

"Hindley" means a "clearing frequented by hinds (female deer)", derived from the Old English words hind (hind, female deer) and lēah (clearing or woodland clearing) 

Group History

3rd Hindley Scout Troop was formed in 1957 by Ron Brown (There’s more about Ron below). What started with just three scouts and one leader has now become one of the largest troops in Wigan District with well over a hundred members. Today’s meetings are a still a balance of fun and scouting, in order to keep 3rd Hindley as fresh as ever. We still have out annual summer camping, taking around fifty people away for the whole week… so we’ve come a long way!

Our Founder

Ron Brown: Founder of 3rd Hindley Scouts (1918 – 2000)

Ron Brown was the dedicated founder and guiding force behind the establishment and success of the 3rd Hindley Scout Group.

A local government officer for Hindley Council until his retirement, Ron's commitment to Scouting was lifelong. He joined the Derby Lane Scout Group as a boy, and his service was only interrupted by his time as a soldier during WWII. After being taken prisoner by the Japanese, he organised his return to England with great resolve.

Following the war, he returned to Scouting, becoming Assistant Scout Master at the 1st Hindley Troop in 1952, and Scout Master in 1955. With a vision for his own non-denominational group, Ron founded the 3rd Hindley Scouts in 1957, beginning with three boys in his front room. He achieved his Wood Badge qualification in 1958.

Ron grew the troop over the years with strong support from his wife, Elsie. Elsie was a key figure in fundraising—organising jumble sales and dances—and was also recognised for her tireless work with the Medal of Merit.

Ron’s commitment to the movement was formally recognised with the Long Service Decoration (1970), the Medal of Merit (1971), and the prestigious Silver Acorn (1990). A significant achievement came in 1986 when Ron proudly led the group into its newly built headquarters, the funds for which he and Elsie had actively raised.

Ron retired as Group Scout Leader, handing the leadership over to his younger son, Norman, who continued to build the group's success. Ron remained involved in the Scouting movement, joining the Scout Fellowship, until his passing on Monday, 25th September 2000, at the age of 82.

Ron has left a lasting legacy in the 3rd Hindley Scout Group and is fondly remembered by the many young people who enjoyed Scouting under his guidance.