Cub Scout’s footsteps for the future

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Matthew Hill, aged 8, from 2nd Guildford Scout Group has raised over £2,500 to help rebuild his Scout HQ by completing a 32 mile walk.

Matthew walked from Guildford to London to raise money to help rebuild his Group’s Scout meeting place. His efforts means Scouting can continue to deliver high quality activities and opportunities for young people.

Starting his trek at his Scout meeting place, Matthew finished up at Baden-Powell House in Central London over the course of the Bank Holiday weekend, 4-7 May.

In the weeks leading up to the walk, Matthew surpassed his goal of £1,000 in donations and by the time he reached Baden-Powell House, had raised £2,615 with more donations still to come.

Well prepared

Though the walk was a wet one, Matthew was well prepared, having completed several practice walks with his supportive mum, Anne.

His favourite leg of the trip was at Hampton Court where he was surprised by well wishers and also took in some sightseeing. Rather than hosting an event within his community, Matthew opted for the hike, saying ‘There’s no cost for a walk. You just say what you’re doing and if people think ‘yeah, I like it’, then they’ll give you some money.’

An investment in the future

The 2nd Guildford Scout HQ was deemed unfit for purpose earlier this year. ‘Our scout HQ was condemned,’ Matthew said. ‘We’re not allowed to use it anymore.’

While it has undergone remedial repairs, the building will need to be completely rebuilt to ensure Scouts’ enjoyment for many years to come. The new facility will be more environmentally friendly and offer improved facilities for those with additional needs. The rebuild is at an estimated cost of £114,000 and the group hope to return to their HQ in 2013.

Find out more
For more information about 2nd Guildford and their plans for a new HQ, please visit their website where you can also find out how to donate.