First Ruislip Explorers group gets off to a good start

CIRCUS skills and a climbing wall were just two of the activities put on to celebrate the launch of Ruislip's first ever explorer group.

A total of 38 youngsters turned out for the launch of the newly formed Ruislip Explorers at the Great Barn, in Bury Street, Ruislip, on September 9.

Gary Knox, group leader for 12th Ruislip scouts and acting explorer leader, said: "We got more people than we expected and they all left with smiling faces.

"The proof was in the pudding because they all turned up on the following Monday.

"We would like to thank all the people who gave up there time and Hillingdon Council for letting us use the barn. It was a great success."

Explorer groups come after scouts and even though there are units based in Eastcote and Northwood, there has never been one in Ruislip.

Graham Sheppardly, assistant explorer leader, said: "We knew there was a need for a unit in Ruislip, it was just getting it started.

"The unit will be feed from 1st, 3rd, 2nd 9th, 4th, 5th and 12th Ruislip scout groups and of course any girls and boys aged 14 to 18 who are interested in having fun, learning new skills, and taking part in adventures along the way."

The group meets every Monday and Tuesday at different Ruislip scout huts from 8pm to 9.30pm.

They have a sailing trip planned for next June and are going to climb Ben Nevis next month.

Go to www.ruislipexplorers.com to find out more information and on how to join.