03 Feb 2026
Markyate Scout Group is at risk of imminent closure unless volunteers come forwards to take over as leaders.
After an extensive appeal for help, only one person has come forwards, and that was to run the Beavers.
Secretary Kyle Gamble said: “We have been trying for the best part of a year to get leaders in to help us run the group.
“We have looked at options to merge with another group, but that hasn’t worked out either.
“Every time we get one leader on board, another decides that they have been waiting too long to get started and now can’t do what they signed up for.”
Group Scout leader Michael Woolsey said: “With a heavy heart it loks like we will be closing the doors at Markyate Scout Group unless someone comes forward.
“I have been involved in Scouting most of my life, 42 of them in Markyate, becoming a leader at the age of 18 and taking over the cub pack as Akela by the age of 21.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved, from my family members, to adult volunteers helping in the background and the volunteers who became leaders – we couldn’t have done it without you.”
If anyone would like to volunteer for any of these sections: Squirrels (four to six), Beavers (six to eight), Cubs (eight to 10 ½), Scouts (10 ½ to 14), please contact St Albans District Scouts at https://www.stalbansscouts.org/
