Due to high demand, the 1st Wigton Baden-Powell Scouts are again hoping to expand their group next month.

From March, it is expected that a third Beaver colony will be set up. The second was only formed 18 months ago, but a third is required to meet the 15-month waiting list.

Group leader, Julie Bryceson, said: “We are constantly turning children away, particularly if they are between six and seven years of age as there is no point in putting them on the waiting list, they won’t get in.

“Our very experienced Beaver leader has volunteered to start the new colony, meaning we can now look at whether this is a viable option.”

If plans go ahead and the new colony is formed, they will meet on Wednesdays from 5.30-6.30pm and would follow the same programme as the Monday and Tuesday colonies.

However, before the group can proceed any further, an additional leader is required for Tuesdays along with helpers for Wednesdays.

“I know there is a need for a third colony but we must have additional help before we commit to it,” added Julie.

“We are fortunate to have 16 leaders in our group but we have already have seven sections, all meeting at different times, over three days so another colony would make eight and while leaders are very enthusiastic, there is a limit as to what they can do, as all are volunteers and all work.”

Some parents are making a 20-mile round trip to bring Beavers to the group, with some Cub and Scout parents travelling even further.

As it stands the group have 130 members and this is expected to grow to around 150 in the next year.

The Beavers follow an active programme taking part in conservation work, crafts, fitness and first aid activities, they also have sleepovers and outings.

If you are interested in helping, would like further information, or to secure a place contact Julie by email, juliebryceson@hotmail.com, through the group website, www.1stwigtonscouts.co.uk or on Facebook.