Recently seven of the Weston Green (All Saints) Rover Crew members from 1956 celebrated their 50 years of friendship. The reunion was organised by Michael Downing, ex. Rover Scout Leader, ably assisted by Bernie Boston. both members of Ember Manor Lodge No 4740 and the West End Sports and Social Club. Our day started at Garsons Farm as *Derek Richardson, very kindly had provided a tractor so we could re-enact our 1956 ‘Anymore for the Skylark’ photo, albeit wearing long trouser for fear of frightening the natives, whilst *Ben Thompson armed with the latest top of the range digital camera took a selection of photographs.
After all the exertions of climbing on and off the tractor the Golden Oldies were in need of liquid refreshment so they were driven to the Sports & Social Club for a few glasses of pop and afterwards it was just a gentle stroll along the road to their final destination, The Prince of Wales for a delicious and sumptuous dinner.
Special thanks have been extended to Derek Richardson (Director) and Ben Thompson of Garsons Farm for all their help and assistance in ensuring our visit was a resounding success. The owner of a 30ft Genoa yacht has suggested a day trip next year around Chichester harbour or an adventure on the high seas to the Isle of Wight, so the Golden Oldies now have lots of time to practice ‘showing – a – leg’, and getting into shape to haul up the main brace and winding up the wenches, oops winches!
Historical Note
Sadly, the Rover section was abolished in the 1965 Advanced Report and despite many outcries was never reinstated. It is certain that in this section the Association enlisted many keen and loyal members and its chronic shortage of leaders in the ensuing years was as a direct result of this action of abolition.
– Extract from ‘A short history of its life and progress of the 1st Weston Green (All Saints) Scout Group, by Alan Groves.
Rover Scout Leader.
Retired from Scouting 1965.
Group Scout Leader.
Assistant District Commissioner.
Venture Scouts and Warden at Polyapes;
Awards: Medal of Merit and Bar.
Retired from Scouting 2000.
Group Scout Leader Award:
Medal of Merit.
Retired from scouting 1992.
Currently Quartermaster;
1st Maiden Scouts.
– Michael Downing.
