The Scout Group in South Godstone- now known as the 1st Lagham (Godstone) Scout Group- was founded in 1937. It was originally called the 2nd Godstone Scout Group, but changed its name because it didn’t want to be second to anyone. Hence the Group’s Latin motto – “nulli secundus”- “second to none”- which appears on its scarf badge.
Until recently very little work had been done on the Scout Hut in Lagham Road since it was built back in the 1930’s, largely due to lack of resources. The Hut was much in need of modernisation. Then a couple of years ago we were bequeathed a substantial legacy by Robert Ashford, whose father Harry Ashford was a founder member of the Group. The Ashfords’ generosity has enabled us to undertake a renovation project. We have installed new toilets in what was previously a storage area and have revamped the front of the Hut to include a disabled toilet, better disabled access to the building and a modernised and extended kitchen area.
Much of the cost of the work was covered by the Ashford legacy. We also received a Community Fund Grant from SES Water and a donation from Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions Club.
As well as being used by Lagham Scout Group, our Hut is used by South Godstone Brownies for their weekly meetings and is available for hire for children’s parties, fitness groups, school holiday clubs and so on. It’s a facility for the whole local community. Our improvements to the Hut, in particular the kitchen modernisation with its much improved catering facilities, have made the Hut a much more attractive and versatile venue for all.
Emma – Group Scout Leader
I had two older brothers and my mum was Akela, so I was very involved in cubs when I was younger – although back then it was only for boys so, I did brownies, but still went on all the cub camps!
My sons were in Beavers / Cubs and Scouts, I agreed to help at 1st Lagham when my son started in Beavers, then very quickly became the Beaver leader and now I am the GSL. I am also currently running the Scout section.
An explorer, adventurer and TV presenter, Dwayne's been seen in BAFTA nominated Channel 5 series Race to the Pole, on BBC Springwatch, Countryfile, National Geographic and Disney+.
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