SCOUTING in south Essex has skyrocketed thanks to the reopening of an old group.

In the past year, nearly 50 youngsters, aged six to 14, have enrolled at the 15th Basildon group as Beavers and Cubs, after it was relaunched.

The group had been in hibernation for years, but is now back up-and-running, meeting in the group’s hall in Holden Gardens, Basildon.

The impressive growth has helped give the Scouts its biggest membership hike since the Seventies, and has pushed the total UK membership up to nearly half a million.

The resurgence in Basildon is down to Robin Pennell, 52, and his partner Karen, 55, who saw there was a need in the area. Cub leader Robin, who has been involved with the movement for 20 years, said: “There was always the need in the area, but the 15th group didn’t have any adults who were prepared to run it.

“After we made the decision to take it on, we visited local schools, went in and chatted to the children in their morning assembly and told them the sorts of things we do.

“Then, hey presto, people started phoning and asking when they could join.”

When the group first restarted in January 2009, Mr Pennell, who lives in Westcliff, said there were eight Beavers, aged from six to eight, and eight Cubs, who are between eight and ten years old.

But within a few months, word of mouth brought them more members and they were able to launch a Scouting wing, for boys and girls aged between 10 and 14.

The Scouts are looked after by Steve Edmondson.

The Cubs and Beavers now meet every Wednesday evening, while the Scouts meet on Thursdays.

Mr Pennell explained why the Scouts is still so popular in Basildon.

He said: “We do arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and lots of fun things.

“We also try to encourage the kids to be independent and also have a sense of right and wrong.

“The group fosters a sense of belonging, and teaches the kids how to work as part of a team.”

Anyone interested in joining can contact Robin Pennell on 07841493508.