THE future of a 40-year-old scout group is hanging in the balance because of a lack of adult volunteers. Scout leaders at the 1st Eaton Socon Scout have said they need help to save the group from closure. Julie Walker, the group s secretary said they curr

THE future of a 40-year-old scout group is hanging in the balance because of a lack of adult volunteers.

Scout leaders at the 1st Eaton Socon Scout have said they need help to save the group from closure.

Julie Walker, the group's secretary said they currently have 60 scout members aged from five to 18.

But she added: "The future of the group is looking very bleak. Sadly we are losing two fantastic cub leaders in July due to family commitments and health issues.

"Unfortunately, no one has come forward to step into the roles. The scout section is running with a temporary leader and is under threat of closure."

The group has refurbished its scout hut, adding a new heating system, flooring, cloakrooms and windows.

Volunteers are needed who can give a couple of hours a week and in return get to work with children and take part in activities such as climbing, canoeing, camping, archery and shooting.

Figures released yesterday (Tuesday) by the Scout Association show that nationally numbers in scouting have increased by 15,000 year-on-year.

One of the biggest increases is said to have been seen in the St Ives area (Cromwell District) where there are now 190 Beaver Scouts, 208 Cub Scouts, 153 Scouts and 33 Explorer Scouts.

Louise Clover, a scout group chairman, said: "Scouting is a fantastic way for adults to learn new skills, meet new people and make a real difference in their local community."

INFORMATION: To become a scout volunteer in St Neots, phone Richard Carpenter on 01480 389726.