Scouts’ joy as buildingwork starts

The Scouts found themselves high and dry a few years ago when their headquarters was suddenly swallowed up by a car park for the new swimming pool.

Since then they have been working hard to raise funds for a replacement for the ageing structure. Now building work has started on a purpose-built headquarters which is set to open on a new site at The Grove, in February next year.

To mark the occasion the Scouts held an open evening and invited members of the public to come and take a look.

Attending the event were Rye Mayor John Breeds and Rye MP Amber Rudd.

Sue Kemsley, from Rye Scouts, said: “Over the past year, a group of Rye Scout mums have continued their valiant fundraising efforts at jumble sales, tombolas, table sales and street collections.

“During the recent Red Arrows display over Rye, the public gave generously, stopping to chat about their own experiences as Scouts when they were children and how lovely it was to see the tradition alive and kicking.

“Rye Scouts raised in excess of £300 at this event alone.

“To date, well over half the money needed to construct the new Scout hut has been raised so Paulcroft Ltd. started working to the designs of Manning Duffie Architects Ltd. at the end of July.”

Amber Rudd said: “It was wonderful to see how much progress has already been made, and I look forward to the completion of this marvellous new Scout hut”.

Rye Scouts continue their fund-raising with a quiz at Rye College on Saturday evening. Tickets are £3 per person in teams of up to six. Entrants can bring their own refreshments, call 01797 224133 for tickets.

Sue Kemsley said: “New members are always welcome. Children can join from as young as the age of six years, right through their childhood to the top age group of Explorers from the age of 14 years.

“With the new Scout building due for handover early next year, there has never been a better time to join, as new members can share in shaping the way the building is completed. You can find out more on 01797 225676.”

r Pictured are Rye Mayor John Breeds, Mayoress Geraldine Breeds and Rye MP Amber Rudd