Marlborough Scout Hut at the corner of George Lane and Granham Hill on the Pewsey Road is far more than a hut for the 2nd Marlborough Scout Group. It’s there for the Beavers, Cubs and both Scout Groups, but it’s also there as a facility to be used by the Marlborough community as well. Hired and used regularly by many groups, and by others on an ad hoc basis. It is one of the town’s few spaces available to all to use.
Bridge, Line Dancing, Tai Chi, Age UK, U3A art class and a MAD Dance Class are just some of the regular groups who can now use the hall in the confidence that the roof is renewed, watertight and weatherproof.
The trustees note that in a normal week at least five hundred people (including Scouts and other related Groups) will use the Scout Hut. An important and well-used community facility.
A Scout Hut has been on this site for at least one hundred years. The current building for fifty, having been put up in 1974. Like all of our houses, where we live it needs upkeep and maintenance, and sometimes a major overhaul. The new roof fell into that category and thanks to the many supporters and sponsors – not least Brearley Rich Estate Agents, Savernake Autos, Earthline, Rivar Ltd, Bernard Sunley Foundation, Dove Farm Food, Marlborough Lions, Rotary Club, Showman’s Guild, Marlborough Town Council, The Area Board – and topped off by a grant of more than £13,000 from the National Lottery, the roof is back in pristine condition, again.
But not to forget the fundraising by Scouts and other groups as well who embarked on bag packing in Tesco, Waitrose and much more, all to help raise the necessary funds to keep the Hut usable and in good condition.
But more is needed, next a new floor (the original from fifty years still exists) and proper insulation, and work on the walls. In this respect it is no different to St Peter’s who are also looking to raise funds for maintenance to keep that old and iconic building in good and usable condition, again, for the community of Marlborough.
So when a young Scout next offers to pack all your shopping into your bag, say ‘thanks’ and ‘here’s a bit of help towards the Hut’. The Trustees wish to give a big thanks to the sponsors and also those in the community who have helped, it’s a ‘big ask’, but worthwhile.
next up – Bonfire Night (Friday 1 November), followed by the Marlborough Scouts Winter Ball, on 23 November at the Town Hall. A big evening out – see below: