Hitchin District Scouts

Hello everyone and welcome to the first edition of HizBiz in our Centenary year.

I must start my piece with an apology for this being the first 2007 edition – but people are apparently missing the presence of our local magazine, which aims to keep everyone up-to-date with what is going on – why has it not happened? Er…one or two other things have been keeping myself, our editor Bernard Lovewell and many of you, rather busy… Here’s a not-so-brief summary of the year so far…

The County launched the Centenary activities with a special event at County Hall, Hertford. Hitchin was well represented, as you would expect and, not to be outdone, we held our informal launch in the Market Square in Mid-January. The District Publicity Stand, together with our all-new Centenary Display drew the Saturday shoppers over for a friendly chat. Naturally, the mulled wine and roasted chestnuts had nothing to do with the popularity of the event! We started our Centenary Signature Book that day and, will collect as many "squiggles" as we can from present or former members of Scouting, wherever they Scout/ed.

The end of January saw our Swimming Gala hit the blocks, under the new stewardship of Grant Chivers, Treasurer from the 9th. He happened to mention to the DC, during a Christmas meal, that he has much experience with such events…"Don’t tell ‘im yer name, Pike!" they all roared, but it was too late! Anyway, a much altered event engulfed the evening and I think everyone enjoyed it! Well done to the team and many thanks to Grant and everyone for their efforts. Now, about 2008…..

Liz White and her Lochearnhead Core Team have done a fantastic job of planning the event and filling all the necessary spaces – including young people! It was great to see a first gathering of the adults – if only to see that they do all exist! A goodly number of people gathered in Preston Village Hall (conveniently situated a stone’s throw from another well-known location) to talk about programme, specialist activities and leaders "tuck-shop" arrangements for this summer’s District Expedition. It’s going to be GREAT – looking forward to it already!

Early February saw a significant band of Hitchin-ites board 5 coaches for the Watford FC league tie against Bolton Wanderers. BW came out as winners, but the young people were much more impressed with the Police escort they received as they left Watford! I think they just wanted to make sure you all left the Watford boundary!

That same evening, HiDEOUS went mobile to Ware District HQ, to test their mental agility in the County Scout Fellowship Quiz Night. Now then, "HiDEOUS" and "mental agility" may not often appear in the same sentence, but our two teams acquitted themselves quite well and, one even thought they had won the event for a few minutes, until the scorers admitted, upon reasonable questioning, that they had missed us out! A good evening was had by all, especially those who were not driving! By the way, that was everyone except our driver - King HiDEOUS. Thank you Nick!

Early/Mid-Feb saw a select band of Scouts venture forth, in the snow, towards Hexton, for this year’s Winter Camp. By the time I arrived late on Sunday morning, the weather had improved immeasurably and everyone was in fine spirits. The land-owner of a former Iron Age Fort lead a fascinating visit to the remains of the fort, whereupon a pitch battle ensued (after a full risk assessment) on one of the 45% slopes! Weapons were put away for a pleasant picnic lunch and we re-traced our steps to the campsite. A great weekend for all concerned and many thanks to Nick and HiDEOUS for making it happen.

Mid February welcomed Hertfordshire’s first invitation to visit a Saracens Premier League Rugby match versus Gloucester. Some of you may not know, but I am a season ticket holder at "Sarries" and so I welcomed the invitation for others to Vicarage Road , with goal posts of the correct dimensions and an odd-shaped ball! It was a tremendous match, topped off nicely by a well-deserved Sarries victory. We took two coach–loads from Hitchin and, were well-represented at a half-time walk around the pitch, with Centenary banners.

Founder’s Day in February also saw an unusual invitation for one of our leaders to give a Scouting Centenary presentation to the pupils and teachers at Samuel Lucas School. Tracey Higginbotham, ACSL 17th, was delighted and apprehensive about the opportunity, but really went for it and actually enjoyed the experience. Very well done to Tracey! Is this something we should be doing more of? I have mentioned before the possible benefits of visiting school parents evenings, with the District Publicity Stand, to seek more adults/leaders…Have a think about this especially if you could do with one or two more people. I will also consider "freshers week" at the College, as Scouting could be of interest to some very able young people, possibly as part of their course work, or, for general interest.

Our Explorers also began their own Centenary celebrations on Founder’s Day, by holding their Annual Dinner on February 22nd. A marvellous evening by all accounts and, congrats to the chefs. Sorry I could not be with you this time.

Early March saw the first of this year’s Group AGMs. The 16th combine their AGM with a fish and chip supper and general knowledge Quiz Evening and, the format seems to work well. Another successful year for our St Faiths Group, but with some changes on the horizon. However, they have worked as a team, ably lead by Teresa (Terry) Brown – Chair/GSL and managed all the moves in-house. The first such move is the retirement of Terry and, she will be missed by all. Her quietly assertive and organised manner is perfect for a GSL, which is probably why she was able to combine her roles with such success. Terry, thank you for everything you have done for the 16th and, please keep in touch.

The 3rd organised a Centenary Church Parade at Walsworth Road in mid-March, which was a roaring success. A neatly choreographed service reminded us of the key milestones of the last 100 years and included participation from each of the sections within the group, with members of the congregation taking an active, if somewhat surprised part in the proceedings. HITOM ESU were also in strong attendance and it was good to see a packed church enjoying the event. Many congratulations to Ian Hankin and his team – I know it was hard work, but it was worth it!

Late March was time for our Air Scouts from the 2nd attending their first Air Camp at the Cambridge Gliding Club. The phrase "best laid plans of mice and men" swung fully into action that weekend, as the dense fog put paid to flying plans on the Saturday. A quick re-arrangement of the schedule saw everyone visiting Duxford that day, rather than splitting into two groups. A broken motor glider on Sunday morning could have ruined the weekend, but the Gliding Club members really pulled out all the stops and, offered all the Scouts a flight in the club’s gliders, with pilots. A tremendous weekend was had by all and in addition to congratulating the leaders, a special vote of thanks must be sent to CGC. By the way, the County Motor Glider is fine now and, has a busy diary over the coming months.

SLs: If you would like to arrange a flying session for your troop, please contact Neil Broughton.

The 4th held their AGM much earlier than normal this year and, reverted to their successful model of putting on some entertainment to go with the business in-hand. The Beavers and Cubs re-enacted some key moments of the Scouting Centenary, accompanied by a narration from the leaders. There was a display of group activities, for all the parents to see and, refreshments ended the evening well. During the evening, I had the absolute pleasure of presenting the Chief Scout’s award for 40 (yes, I did say 40!) years service to Ann Phillips, matching the one I presented to Jeff at last year’s AGM. Ann, this is a wonderful achievement. Please accept a sincere "thank you!" from everyone in Hitchin Scouting, for all that you have done and, continue to do for Hitchin and St Ippolytts Scouting.

The 17th invited me to present a number of Beaver and Cub awards recently and, I was immediately pounced upon by at least 40 youngsters seeking my autograph! I try not to let the fame and fortune of the DC role get to me, but this was quite something…and, why was my attention so suddenly sought? The sections have been set 100 challenges for the Centenary and, included within these is the requirement to collect the DC’s signature! Well done to Denise and Aida for their efforts – has anyone else had a go at this? If you would like some details, please contact the 17th.

Just a quick footnote to this…Denise has been particularly sneaky with my son Ben: He has to collect the County Commissioner’s signature! Nice one!

That same evening, Alicia had organised a "Easter Egg Hunt" for the 19th in conjunction with the school in Little Wymondley. Between torrential rain showers, the young people scoured the school grounds searching for eggs and, enjoyed a number of activities in the hall as well. The District Publicity Stand was put to good use at this busy event and, Alicia had created some hand-bills requesting urgent help to re-start Beavers in the village. An article in the Parish Magazine and, a leaflet drop are also part of the recruitment plan in Wymondley. Well done Alicia for all your efforts, particularly during some difficult times!

Just before dashing off for some time away with my family, I was able to catch up with several members of our Hitchin posse for the rapidly-approaching World Scout Jamboree. Everyone has thoroughly enjoyed the pre-event training and activities, which have enabled the Unit-members to get to know each other, before they spend two weeks in each other’s company. Their fund-raising seems to have gone well also. I will let the young people tell their own stories at this year’s District AGM, but they too had to dash off – to pack for their trip to the Netherlands over the Easter weekend!

Something else that came out of our chat and, deserves a mention… The utter surprise expressed by many other Districts, within Hertfordshire and beyond, that we have the luxury of a Trust Fund, to help finance our World Jamboree attendees. The Norman Hyde Trust Fund exists through the financial generosity of others and a similarly significant generosity of time and expertise by the Trustees. All our Jamboree attendees (and their parents and host-groups and/or the District) are enormously grateful for the support of the Trust, which also funds our Adult Training requirements and, has covered the District Levy (as part of the annual capitation fee) on more than one occasion.

I know that the Trust’s next target is a massive financial push, to try and cover the whole capitation levy, and we wish them every success in their endeavours on our collective behalf. Naturally, should any individual, entity or company or otherwise, wish to further the financial under-pinning of the future of Hitchin Scouts, I’m sure that Norman Hyde (on behalf of the Trustees) would be delighted to hear from you!

Our District Archivist, Gordon Brown, put in a lot of effort in April, to display some of our archives for three weeks at Hitchin Museum. Space was at a premium, but there were some "gems" on display, particularly with the older photographic records. Thanks to Gordon and, we look forward to teaming up with the British Schools a little later in the year.

I hope you all enjoyed St George’s Day Parade this year! We were blessed with fine weather (again) and even the younger participants managed to keep me on my toes during my "brief" introduction! Many thanks to JP and the Toque Tambor Samba Band, for their accompaniment again and, to Rev Michael Roden for his words of wisdom and support. I was delighted to be able to present Centenary (hooray!) scarves to Richard Cox, our President and to many of our Vice Presidents and Executive Committee members. I will catch up with those who were absent, as they all do a magnificent job of supporting Hitchin Scouting – we just don’t hear about it very often!

I nearly finished this piece on Monday evening of the early May bank-holiday, having visited our 5 Troops who entered the Patrol Activity Weekend (aka PAW) at Tolmers. There were some fantastic activities, organised in "zones" so that everyone could have a go. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, bungy-bouncing, quad biking, getting soaked in the "Splash Zone" and making model gliders...

Yes, Colin Knowles came up with the goods again, by designing and producing models of Hertfordshire’s own motor glider – all you had to do was cut them out, stick them together and go-fly! The activity proved to be a big hit, as Colin, Wendy (2nd) and Gill (9th) glided through over 300 constructions during the weekend!

It was great to see David Rossall, Paul Johnson and Robin Annett there, supporting the 11th, 16th and 7th. The leaders help running the activity bases throughout the weekend and, in return, have all their catering provided centrally – I hear it was Christmas Dinner on Saturday night! Well done to all and, a tremendous turnout from Hitchin!

The Town Boundary Walk saw some 100 people yomping in the rain, finding parts of Hitchin that they never knew existed. Everyone seemed to have a good time despite the weather, which was not too bad until early afternoon – when there were some significant downpours! The quiz went down really well and, I can announce that the winner was David Lickfold, from the 16th Scouts. Very well done to David and to everyone who took part. Thanks also to HiDEOUS, for organising the event during such a busy period. We have received some feedback, in case we repeat the evnt and, yes, I’m sure that the finish will be staffed in future!

Our Centenary District AGM seemed to go very well, in the setting of Wymondley Wood. Steve and Brian from HiDEOUS were on hand to provide quality burgers and hotdogs and, HiTOM Explorers served refreshments to the gathered guests, including Ivor Thomas, our County Commissioner and his wife Jean. During the evening, we all very much enjoyed two presentations: HiTOM ESU, showed some of their 400+ photos from the massively successful Surf Camp last summer and, Kathryn Rainbow and Sam Hankin, two of our Jamboree representatives, told us about their extensive preparations for the event, which is now only a matter of weeks away. I know that they are all very excited about the event and, will tell us all about it, when they get back.

What happened next? Ah yes, Centenary Camp. Did we all enjoy it? From what I have heard, I think so! I won’t say too much more, other than to thank every single person who helped make it happen and, make it so successful, despite the weather!

By the way, please don’t ask me to organise the next Centenary Camp!

I have attended the usual round of Group AGMs this year, many of which have been quite entertaining, as leaders have tried to do something different. The 17th's definitely fits that category, as they celebrated the 40^th anniversary of the Group, by combining the business with a fish and chip supper and disco. The St Michael’s Community Centre was packed and, a tremendous evening was had by all.

Mid June saw the 3rd Scouts depart to Bromham, near Bedford, for their annual spring camp. A great kend was had by all and it was clear, that they were keeping up their high standards of camping. They were also paid quite a compliment by some visiting Beavers and their leaders.

What can I say, other than a very well done to all concerned – that’s what makes Scouting so special!

Right. I’ll stop there! Excuse me, wakey, wakey! Sorry, I thought you had dozed off!

People News

There have been quite a few changes in recent months, as follows:

Kevin Banks has joined the District Executive Committee and, is already taking a full and active part in Hitchin Scouting. Welcome to Kevin.

Ann-Marie Goss has stepped down as BSL 3rd, for family health reasons. I hear that Kate Hankin has been persuaded by Ian to take over as BSL and another volunteer or two have been identified, as Helen Owen is due to step down as ABSL in the summer. Ann-Marie, thank you for all that you have done at the 3rd and best wishes for the future, to you and your family.

The 4th Beavers are now back up to full speed, as Jan Stapleton has taken over as BSL, ably assisted by Chris and Michele as ABSLs. Thank you all for volunteering and for keeping Beavers going in St Ippolytts. The Reverend Ann Pollington has recently taken over as Priest for the parishes of Little and Great Wymondley and St Ippolytts. She has accepted the position as Chair 4th Hitchin with immediate effect. Ann, welcome and, thank you for volunteering.

Eric Fehily has changed roles from SL to ASL, as a new work role now requires extensive travel, which will impact his attendance at weekly meetings. However, Robin Annett has swapped from ACSL to SL, to take charge with support from Eric. Cheers guys!

Rory Farmer has taken out an ABSL warrant and, is covering ably at the 9th whilst Linda Males recovers from an operation. Thanks to Rory for stepping up to this and, best wishes from us all to Linda, for a speedy recovery.

Mark Lally as recently joined the 9th as ASL. A new recruit, Mark was a Cub in a previous life and, was recently looking for something to focus his energies upon during his newly-freed weekday evenings! Welcome Mark and thank you for volunteering.

Peter Woolston has joined the 11th as ACSL. Again, a new leader, who is settling in well with Bernard and Robin. Welcome Peter and, thank you for volunteering.

Sylvia Grice has traded-in her Young Leader status at 12th Beavers, by applying for an ABSL warrant. Great news. Sylvia, thank you for your continued support. I know that Rose has valued this greatly. Rose, as you know is moving away and, I’m delighted to advise that Jackie Cooper has agreed to take over as BSL. Many thanks to Rose and a warm welcome to Jackie.

Greg (ACSL 15^th) has moved to a new posting with his job and has therefore relinquished his position as ACSL. Greg has done a great job in Pirton and, I know that Anton will miss his services to Scouting. Thank you Greg and, best wishes for the future.

Rob Reed has joined the 16th as ASL, which is really good news, as Saul and Jane Purton will be standing down as SL/ASL respectively from the summer. Paul Johnson (currently ASL) has kindly agreed to step up as SL effective also from the summer – it sounds like Lochearnhead will be the handover period, as if one were needed! Welcome to … and Rob. Thank you both for volunteering.

David Wilson has joined the 17th as ACSL, which is great news following the departure of two ACSLs and YL for work, personal and University reasons! Kim Wheeler ABSL and Rob Bramfield have advised that they will be stepping down at the end of May. Kayleigh Oddy, currently YL is to take out an ABSL warrant. Welcome to David and Kayleigh – thank you both for volunteering. Kim and Rob, thank you for everything you have done for the 17th during your tenure as ABSL/YL and, best wishes for the future.

Kate Kinnear has returned from an overseas work secondment, to resume her ACSL role with Alicia at the 19th. Kate, welcome back and thank you for not forgetting about us!

There are several other people considering taking out leader warrants at the time of going to press and, a larger number of YLs taking out full warrants also. I will advise the details as soon as the individuals are confirmed in-role.

As you can see, there are quite a number of changes happening, which just shows the fluid nature of our adult/leader base. A sincere thank you to all those who are moving on, for your efforts on behalf of our young people and, an equally sincere welcome to those who are joining us – you are joining a great team in and around Hitchin.

A couple of other things, to finish off, for now…

I have noted, from a quick scan of recent County Infosheets (previously known as the Noticeboard) that Queen’s Scout awards (various) seem few and far between in Hitchin, compared to our peers. I’m sure that this cannot be the case, but, perhaps we are not reporting them? I know that Rose has/had a stack of blue cards, which are/were to be completed when an appropriate badge was supplied from our Scout Shop. Can we please ensure that we send the details forward? I think the best justification for doing so, is that the young person, others within the group/section and parents etc will really feel good, seeing the person’s name mentioned for an achievement! Thanks for your co-operation.

The District Website is taking shape nicely, with increasing content appearing almost every week. The website team are meeting during the next few weeks, to agree how to take the site forward. I’ll let you know the outcome as soon as I can. In the meantime, there are still quite a few groups without any content at all. I know we are all busy, but please try to find a few minutes, just to type a few words about your group/section.

Talking about site content, many of you know that it is our intention to publish the District Directory on the site. I have heard that several people have expressed concern about placing their details in such a public space. I have therefore spoken with my guru’s and we have agreed to change the password access. Further details will be sent via email.

I am pleased to advise that approximately 30 people from Hitchin will be visiting the World Jamboree site at Hylands Park, Essex on Saturday 4th August. Richard Cox, our esteemed District President, will be joining us, with his wife, Andrea. I know that Tony Freeman (and possibly others) are going as part of the "Sutton Coldfield Mafia" or something similar from the ’67 event also. We are all looking forward to a very special day and, will let know you all about it, after the summer.

Centenary Sunrise: Weds 1^st August

Soap Box Derby: Saturday 29^th September

I think that just about wraps things up from me at the moment. I wish everyone a fantastic summer, including those attending the Jamboree and, the 90+ people going to the District Lochearnhead Expedition!

Best wishes and thank you for your continued support – we really are a great team!