By now all Groups and Sections are well into their autumn programmes and I am most encouraged with reports of increasing numbers right across our District. Toni Mitchell and Mike Logan have been working on information for local libraries, schools and other public places so that our community will know who we are, what we do, when we meet and most important how to get in touch

Our District Carol Service on Fri. evening the 8th Dec. will start at 7.15 pm so as to finish by 8.15pm in time to enjoy mince pies and light refreshments. We have been invited by 2nd Eastcote to the Methodist Church in Pamela Gardens, Eastcote so lets have a full turnout from all Groups, in uniform and with lots of parents and relatives being invited to this celebration occasion which we shall programme to suit a multi-faith gathering.

Those who were able to come to the DC’s Snowball Cheese and Wine enjoyed good fellowship and a fun packed evening and, more importantly, it was a time of getting to know one another better. The new proposed Rowallan building at Chalfont has benefited by our fund raising. It is now the turn of each Group to organise your own cheese and wine evening and raise Ł2.50 per head to go towards the Rowallan building fund. So don’t forget to invite the DC once you have arranged the date.

The government’s proposed Criminal Records Bureau would levy a Ł10 charge on

all future prospective adult volunteers who are being considered for a role within any organisation which works with young people. We are not opposed to the government’s scheme but are opposed to the proposed charge of Ł10 per enquiry which across the country would cost the Scout Association close to Ł750,000 each year. In our District alone there would be an intolerable burden on Group Funds. The Scout Association makes the point we are all volunteers, we each give freely of our time for the benefit of young people and we should not have to find Ł10 each time someone generously volunteers their time. I have been in close contact with John Wilkinson our local member of parliament and have asked him to put our concerns and questions direct to the Home Secretary.

Finally a reminder to all GSLs and District Team of our meeting on Tuesday evening 21st November, 8.00 pm at 1st Eastcote. Agendas are coming out but this is an important time as Paul Spencer, Toni Mitchell and I want to keep you informed of some very important issues within the world of Scouting which is going to affect Districts, Groups and Sections. I do ask all members of the team not to miss this meeting so that you may be informed and, in turn, can update your Group and each section.