VOLUNTEER Gary Osborne has taken on the challenging and unusual role as leader of two local scout groups.

As the scout group leader for the Okehampton Scouts, Gary was recently asked to also take over the leadership of the Tavistock Scouts.

Gary said being a group scout leader for two large areas was uncommon, however he was able to take on both roles due to the groups being in different scouting regions, Okehampton in Mid Devon and Tavistock in West Devon.

Gary said he was excited by his new challenge and was determined to boost the number of members and volunteers, which he said have been in recent decline.

‘Numbers in scouting have dropped significantly’, said Gary.

‘In particular, the Tavistock Beavers group are lacking in numbers. When I took over as group scout leader there was only six beavers, this number has recently risen to 10, however it is still a small group.

‘Beavers, cubs and scouts provide young people with a fantastic skill set that often isn’t taught in schools.

‘We are a very inclusive group that offers children the chance to make new friends, have fun, as well as learn vital life skills.

‘I would encourage anyone thinking about joining either beavers, cubs of scouts to just give it a go! There are many fun and exciting opportunities available within the scouting organisation.’

Scouts are split into three groups. the Beaver Scouts welcome boys and girls aged between six and seven, the Cub Scouts age range is between seven and ten and scouts are for those aged 11 to 14.

Gary said he would also welcome any adults from Tavistock and Okehampton who wished to volunteer and help with the running of these groups.

He said: ‘Any parents or adults with some free time would be most welcome as a volunteer, you don’t have to wear the uniform, you just have to be willing to help.

‘You don’t even need to volunteer every single week — we have volunteers called occasional group helpers, who give their time when they can. Whether that is once a week, once a month or once every couple of months.’

Gary said volunteers would be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and would also be asked to do a little training.

‘Being a group scout leader is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,’ said Gary.

‘I would encourage anyone to join the scouting community!’