At the end of November 2020, local Scouts, the 4th Ashby, didn't know if they'd be allowed to carry out the Scout Post service which they have undertaken for over 35 years to raise valuable funds.
However, risk assessments completed and approved, the team pulled out all the stops to get the service up and running.
"Whilst things were a little slower starting than usual, we delivered a decent number of cards, hopefully helping the people of Ashby out." said Group Scout Leader, Jon Bloor. "Although for us as a charity in our own right, things have been tough, we all wanted to help other local groups out this year."
4th Ashby Scout Group is open to boys and girls from Ashby and the surrounding area. Founded in 1976, the group has met in several locations in town including the Baptist Church and Methodist Chapel. More recently, they have used the Scout Hut on Wilfred Gardens and can often be found out and about in town or at Willesley Campsite.
A poll was held amongst the many members of the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts who helped to sell, sort and deliver the cards and local charities Charity Link and Rainbows Hospice were chosen. Today a donation of £250 has been made to Charity Link and Rainbows Hospice will follow shortly.
Particular thanks must go to The Card Cottage in Ashby and Daybreak Services in Packington for being collection points for the cards. Thank you to the people of Packington, Smisby and Ashby who supported the service and to the many families of Beavers, Cubs and Scouts at 4th Ashby.
The Scout Post will return in December 2021.