Beaver Scouts – April 2023 to March 2024

The last year for 2^nd Ewell (Rainsters) Beaver Scout Colony has been another exceptionally busy affair! April 2023 feels like a very long time ago.

The summer term of 2023 was full of the usual comings and goings for the Colony – with the annual Chip Shop Hike a particular favourite, alongside den building in West Ewell and orienteering in Horton Country Park. Cooking (always high on the agenda) and craft were also core activities, with wooden owl faces a standout.

11 Beavers joined a similar number of Cubs at Broadstone Warren for Summer Camp – staying for a night under canvas (for many of them, their first time) and enjoying a campfire, pedal go-karts and climbing whilst on site!

The autumn term brought some new challenges, not least the added pressures of a big Colony and losing both the weather and the light, but the Beavers were up to the task and certainly brought the energy! Local visits to Epsom Town Centre and exploring the local area around the Hut stood alongside Lego, money and Hallowe’en evenings.

The big events of the end of the year are always Remembrance Sunday Parade, where 15 Beavers turned out in their best dressed uniform at St Mary’s, Ewell; the District Emergency Aid afternoon at 1^st Cuddington, upskilling 6 of our young people, and the annual joint fundraising carol service with the Cubs.

The first term of 2024 is always the quietest – or so we thought! The young people are never far from energy or volume – and meetings involving science, cooking and craft are always likely to keep them occupied. 4 of our Beavers took part in the County’s Reach for the Stars virtual camp, and 8 Beavers joined the District Lizard Hike at the end of term.

As ever, I must give my thanks to Mary, my wonderful team member, Ben and Alex, our in-training Young Leaders, and to all of our parents that support us with our efforts. There’s always room for more people on our leadership team, and we are looking for a parent rep on the Exec as well, so please step up if you feel able.

Martyn Holloway-Neville, Beaver Scout Leader