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Focus on GLSW
Scouting in Greater London South West February 2003
Chairman's Notes
I'm delighted to confirm that, following the annual monitoring and evaluation exercise, funding of the Development Project in the 2nd year has been received. Positive results of the initiatives can now be seen at Group and District level. For example, North Croydon District are running a special Adult Recruitment workshop. Their theme "No Adults, No group, No Scouting" is certainly thought provoking. Did you know you can now download twenty different Development resources, produced by the Development Project, and twelve associated factsheets to help with Group and District Development, directly from the County Website? Visit www.glswscouts.org.uk/development or e-mail Jo Launchbury our ACC (Development).
We extend our sympathy to Roger (CC) and his family on the loss of his Mum. There is never a right time for a family bereavement but to be deprived of your Mum just before Christmas, when everyone is rejoicing, is particularly hard to accept.
Please read the brief article from Hallum Carter-Pegg, our Finance Committee Chairman, on the Scout Association's Legacy Promotion Campaign.
I know from Angela Sailing, our County Secretary, that the census returns for 2002 are nearing completion. Thank you to all those involved. Hopefully I will be able to meet as many District Officers at our annual census/forum meeting on THURSDAY 6th MARCH 8.00pm at BOW LANE. (Invitation letters on route) I was interested to read the Scout Association annual census returns for 2001 namely:
| Total Youth Membership | 381,888 |
| Total Leadership | 79,394 |
| Total Organisational Support | 15,710 |
| Total Membership | 476,992 |
What will be the results for 2002? – Watch this space.
My sincere congratulations to 1st Old Malden, Kingston and Malden District on achieving the impossible:
- Securing a major Lottery grant;
- Having the get up and go to build their new HQ;
- Maintaining their membership throughout the 9 months rebuilding programme;
- Persuading the Chief Scout to open the HQ;
- Raising the image of Scouting via extensive press coverage including many pictures.
The Jamboree is over and everyone is back safe and well. We await their reports, but on what I have heard, the Jamboree exceeded all expectations even if it was 40°C!
Cheers!!
George Davidson – Vice President
George's daughter writes.............
My father now resides in a nursing home in Oxfordshire. He was admitted to hospital in June last year suffering from a urine infection and a blood disorder.When he began the long road to recovery it became apparent that my mother could no longer look after him at home, and we found a nursing home in the Sunbury area. In October my mother was admitted to the same hospital and after only three weeks unfortunately died. I then decided that it would be more practical for my father to be in a nursing home nearer to my husband and I in Oxfordshire. He moved there in December and appears to have settled quite well. He suffers from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's and is just a skeleton of the man I am sure you all knew and remember. Scouting was my father's life and I would like to thank-you for all the friends he has made through this world-wide organisation. If anyone wishes to take time out and visit him then please feel free to do so – but I hasten to add please don't be disappointed if he doesn't recognise you. He loves having visitors and I know he would appreciate your time. His address is: Huntercombe Hall Nursing Home, Huntercombe Place, Nuffield, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. RG9 5SE. 01491 641792.
If anyone wishes to e-mail me, then my address is: J8MDH@aol.com.
Happy Scouting to you all,
Have you made your Will?
It helps family and friends if your affairs are tidy when you leave this world. One way to help is to make a Will.
When you make a Will, it is at this time that we think of ways we can thank those who have helped us along the way. We give specific gifts or money to thank them and to be remembered.
Did you have fun in Scouting? One way to thank Scouts for the fun and hard work you and your friends have given to Scouting is to perhaps give a legacy to your old Scout Group, District or County (if you can afford to do so). When you next revise your Will, or make one for the first time, think of Scouting. I am sure Scouts of the future will thank you for your generosity in helping to keep Scouting financially secure.
The Scout Association has prepared a Website if you are interested: www.legacypromotioncampaign.org.uk and generally: www.rememberacharity.org.uk.
County Orienteering Competition
A very wet Sunday in December saw 52 teams of two gather at allotted times to compete in the orienteering competition which was held in Riddlesdown, Purley.
Despite the inclement weather all age groups found the vast majority of the points and were able to return to the finish with most of their card stamped.
My thanks to Alan Kemp, Ron Welbrook and their team for braving the elements.
My congratulations go to Brandon & Michael of 7th Malden for winning the under 12 event. To Laurance & Richard of 25th Purley for winning the under 14s category with maximum points. To Andy & Daniel of 7th Purley on coming 1st in the under 16s also with maximum points and to Killian & David of 7th Malden on winning the Venture Scout event.
Other Events
Each Troop should now have received your copy of the Scout section events book along with the questionnaire and the year planner. Firstly may I thank the 30 odd of you who have filled in the questionnaire and returned it to me. As to the rest of you, please do return the form, without this information I cannot effectively plan for the section in the coming months.
Two quick reminders: 9th Feb is the County Cooking comp at 1st Hook and 15/16th March is the Night exercise at Polyapes. Details on the County Web site or in your events book.
New ADC for Richmond upon Thames
Welcome to Steve Miles who has taken on the role of ADC (Scouts) in Richmond upon Thames District, I am sure that he is looking forward to enjoying the support of the Scout Section in the District. Steve takes over a vacant appointment after the departure of Tim Gilby last year. Tim has taken a step back for a while to concentrate on a degree amongst other things. I am sure that the Scouters in Richmond and particularly the old Twickenham District will join me in thanking Tim for all his hard work during his appointment.
20th World Scout Jamboree
As I am sure that you are all well aware, several Leaders in the County, as well as our own unit, have been away over the Christmas period in Thailand at the Jamboree. I was there working as part of the UK Contingent Support team along with CJ O'Hagan and Andy Harris. Our main job was to support the units and the young people, as well as cover PR matters and other general duties. These duties included stuffing and distributing (until 4 in the morning) 3,000 Christmas stockings, loading 2,400 Explorer Scouts and their Leaders on to Baht taxis in 40 minutes, sorting out lost passports, handing out 15,000 sticks of rock and meeting and greeting as Units arrived or departed. There were other less enjoyable tasks such as breaking the news of family bereavements to young people and adults, dealing with sickness and accidents and dealing with some of the other issues that come up when you take 3,000 people half way round the World for 3½ weeks.
Other members of the County were also there doing important jobs too. Siobhan Cuss and Helen Jeffery were members of the International Service Team who worked as Sub camp Leaders. Bob Prescott and Richard Holmes were there also as part of the IST with specific responsibilities for security and there were others from GLSW. I was particularly pleased to meet up with Rebecca Heath, who was part of the Unit that I took to Chile in '98/99 and had dropped in as part of her year out travelling around the World.
Well I am sure that you will hear much more in the coming months, but let me just say this........... its our turn in 2005 and 2007!
The GLSW Scout Network effectively came into being with the Investiture of the first Members aboard HMS Belfast on Friday January 17. The party of 14, including two Members from Berkshire, assembled with kit at London Bridge station provoking a certain amount of curiosity from homebound commuters. A short walk revealed the 'surprise' venue, where we were welcomed aboard and shown to our 'mess' on deck 3. Pizzas arrived soon after, and these were consumed at the same time as participating in a fairly informal team quiz featuring Scouting and other questions.
At approximately 9.15 pm we made our way to the Admiral's Day Room, where David Williamson, the National Commissioner, made a short speech before the CSNC led everyone in re-affirming The Promise. Certificates marking the event were then presented by David, who joined us all for 'refreshment' at the nearest (and as it turned out most expensive) hostelry we could find. We were back on board by 11.30pm for a natter and trivial pursuits before hitting the sack. A continental breakfast was provided in the morning, and then some toured the ship while most headed for the station and home. The intention is that future investitures will be organised by the Local Networks themselves although it is just possible that there could be another similar event in 12 months time – watch this space!
Local Networks have been reasonably active although we still have a few teething problems. Activities are starting to appear on the Network 'smartgroup' website, which members can join by invitation – please let me have your email addresses. We also have our pages on the County website, and thanks again to Chris Sowden and Helen Jeffrey for undertaking the task so quickly and effectively.
The inaugural meeting of the Belarus Project Network was postponed because of treacherous road conditions caused by heavy snowfall, but a few bods managed to get together to push things along and re-arrange the meeting for April 2 at BOW LANE. Everyone is welcome to attend – at 8pm.
Two major activities will take place in March and April, respectively Operation Red Flare (March 1) and the Network Rugby Sevens (April 13). Red Flare is open to teams of Explorers and the Network, or indeed composite teams. Network members wishing to assist on checkpoints should contact me as soon as possible. We are also considering a water-activities weekend at Longridge over the early May bank holiday weekend, but flood damage prevents us going firm at the moment. The County Conference takes place on July 10. All members of the GLSW Scout Network can and we hope will attend. The next County Scout Network Committee will be held on March 3rd at the Petersham and Ham Sea Scouts HQ, starting at 8.30pm.
I am still anxious to appoint some County Scout Network Leaders with responsibilities for aspects such as Awards, International, State Duties etc, and to support Local Networks on a temporary basis until they find their feet. Names, in confidence, to me please!
Camp Fire Leaders Course/Workshop
The course is designed for leaders or adult helpers, from any section, who would like to take the opportunity of improving their standard of camp fire leadership. Sessions will include: camp fire leadership skills; leading songs; programme planning; building; lighting and safety of a camp fire and a demonstration of a camp fire. You will also be sure to learn lots of new songs as well as enjoying a good 'sing-song' in the company of other enthusiasts.
Contact: Margaret Pooley
GLSW Flying Programme 2003
This year we are offering eleven flying days at four airfields, so there is plenty of choice. Dates have already been publicised but here is a reminder:
Stapleford: 6th April, 11th May, 22nd June, 20th July, 28th September and 12th October.
Redhill: 13th April and 13th July.
Rochester: 17th August.
Goodwood: 18th May and 7th September.
For Stapleford bookings call Dot Short. For Goodwood, Redhill and Rochester call Ken Funnell. Why not make it one of your new year resolutions to get into the air, maybe for the first time in a light aircraft. Those who have been before will be most welcome to come again!
Inter County Airgun Competition
The trials for a squad to take part in this event attracted 45 people! Shooters came from Wimbledon, Morden, Surbiton, Purley, Malden, Old Malden, Whitton, and Hampton, competing in both rifle and pistol shooting over a 10 metre range. The best shot overall was a 12-year-old girl from 3rd Hampton Hill and, as it is obligatory in the rules to have a Scout under 13 in the team, she will be a real asset.
For the trials we used the new air rifles – pre-charged air rifles which are like lightweight versions of 'proper' match rifles. The final team selection will take place in a few days when some of the Jamboree contingent have had a chance to try.
Explorer Scout Leaders Training Days
A quick reminder of the Explorer Scout Leaders Training days: 8 and 9 February at BOW LANE. 10.15 for 10.30am start, we will be finished by 4pm.
Light refreshments will be provided – but please bring a packed lunch.
GANG SHOW – SOUWEST 2003
Secombe Theatre, Sutton. Tuesday 28th October – Saturday 1st November 2003
Auditions are being held on Sundays 23rd February, 2nd & 9th March 2003. All auditions will be held at Christ Church with St Phillip's Church Hall, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park, Surrey. You only have to attend one audition date. Auditions are open to members of the Scout & Guide Associations. You must be nine years old or over by 1st October 2003. You should be enthusiastic, able to sing, move in time to music, act a little, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY .......HAVE FUN!!
For more information, contact your Leader, visit the web site at www.glswscouts.org.uk/gangshow or e-mail gangshow@glswscouts.org.uk.
Managing Unacceptable & Disruptive Behaviour
There will be an evening workshop on Managing Unacceptable & Disruptive Behaviour on Thursday 6 March 2003 from 7.30 p.m. until 10 p.m. at Wallington, Carshalton & District headquarters, Woodcote Road, Wallington. Cost £3.50 including refreshments, and handouts.
If you wish to attend, please send your details (including your Group and Appointment) together with the remittance (cheques to be made payable to G.L.S.W. Training Account) to Margaret Pooley. Enclose stamped addressed envelope for confirmation and booking in instructions.
Diary Dates
| February | 13 | Team | County Scout Centre |
| 23 | DC’s Conference | County Scout Centre | |
| March | 1 | County Dinner | Hotel Antoinette |
| 6 | District Officers | County Scout Centre | |
| 12 | Scout Section | County Scout Centre | |
| 14-16 | Bethesda working party | Yr Hen Neaudd (Bethesda) | |
| 17 | Finance | 67 Westow St., SE19 | |
| 26 | Gang Show Management | TBA | |
| April | 2 | Executive | County Scout Centre |
| May | 28 | Gang Show Management | TBA |
| 29 | Team | County Scout Centre | |
| June | 2 | Finance | 67 Westow St., SE19 |
| 8 | DC’s Conference | County Scout Centre | |
| 11 | County AGM | Wimbledon & Merton District HQ | |
| 19 | Scout Section | County Scout Centre | |
| July | 16 | Gang Show Management | TBA |
Training Dates for 2003
| First Steps | 16 February and 16 March | Margaret Pooley |
| Beavers Leadership One | 5 October, 9 November and 7 December | Joan Condon |
| Cubs Leadership One | 8 June, 5–6 July, 5 October and 9 November | Joan Condon |
| Scouts Leadership One | 8 June, 5–6 July, 5 October and 9 November | Joan Condon |
| Leadership Two | 3–4 May, 18–19 October | Pat Askey |
| Explorer Scouts | 8–9 February | Caroline O`Hagan |
| Managing disruptive behaviour | 6 March | Margaret Pooley |
| GSL/Commissioner | 21/22/23 November and 7 March | Martin Whiting |
| Campfire Leaders | 6 April | Margaret Pooley |
| Advanced Hillwalking | 2 February and 7–9 February | Ron Wellbrook |
Awards
| Medal of Merit | |
|---|---|
| Philip Beal | Richmond upon Thames |
| Betty Carter | Richmond upon Thames |
| Thomas Dallas | Richmond upon Thames |
| Malcolm Dalton | Purley and District |
| Shirley Edwards | County |
| Stuart England | Purley and District |
| Timothy Gilby | Richmond upon Thames |
| Richard Goad | Purley and District |
| Victor Griffiths | Richmond upon Thames |
| Michael Holwill | Richmond upon Thames |
| Peter Jeffrery | Purley and District |
| Janet King | Richmond upon Thames |
| Kurt Mayfield | Richmond upon Thames |
| Margaret Mayfield | Richmond upon Thames |
| Frank Moors | Richmond upon Thames |
| Karin Noble | Richmond upon Thames |
| Edith Peacock | Purley and District |
| Jean Taylor | County |
| Sharon Tiney | Richmond upon Thames |
| Chief Scout’s Commendation for good services | |
| Elaine Browne | Purley and District |
Lost/Found
Pair of Black M&S loafer shoes size 6 left at Wallington, Carshalton & District H.Q. after the First Steps Training Course held 17 November – contact Margaret Pooley.
Sponsorship
Richard Lonsdale (Scout with 3rd Teddington in the 1970's) is running the London Marathon 2003 to raise money for BLISS, a charity that helps premature and sick babies. His son William benefited from this charity and is now fit and well and on the waiting list for 7th Malden Group.
Contact: www.justgiving.com/william
Surplus to requirements
Free to anyone in Scouting: A large trailer built onto a caravan base frame. It is very large so it does need a heavy vehicle to tow it.
For Sale: Petrol minibus 15 seat LDV with seat belts. Price is negotiable for Scouts.
Contact: Peter Menhennett (1st Hook)
Focus on GLSW
Items for the April issue should be submitted by 16 March 2003 to the editor: focus@glswscouts.org.uk
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