One of Darlington’s oldest community groups is celebrating 110 years of continuous service to local young people.
The 8th Darlington (Cockerton Green) Scout Group, founded in 1914 and still thriving, will commemorate the occasion this summer with a commemorative photo and a renewed focus on bringing families together through its annual Garden Fete.
Run entirely by volunteers and remaining independent from larger district organisations, the group prides itself on being self-sufficient and rooted in the local area.
The annual Garden Fete at Cockerton Green, Darlington this year is being held on Saturday, June 14 from 1pm (Image: 8TH DARLINGTON GROUP) Beavers, Cubs and Scouts make up its 85-strong membership, and all play a part in helping the group continue to thrive- 110 years on.
Alec Llewellyn, Group President and member since the 1970s, said: “What makes our group special is its independence and spirit.
“For over a century, we’ve stood proudly on our own two feet – with the support of the local community – to give young people the chance to learn, grow and have adventures. The Garden Fete is a celebration of that.”
The annual Garden Fete at Cockerton Green, Darlington this year is being held on Saturday, June 14 from 1pm (Image: 8TH DARLINGTON GROUP) This year’s Garden Fete will take place on Saturday, June 14 from 1pm on Cockerton Green.
The annual event has become a fixture in the local calendar, with stalls and activities organised by the Scout leaders alongside support from the young members themselves.
The line-up includes long-standing favourites such as Splat the Rat, Hook-a-Duck Football Kicks and Wheel of Fortune. There will also be face painting, a tombola book stall, adult and kids darts and a range of refreshments including hot dogs and ice cream.
The annual Garden Fete at Cockerton Green, Darlington this year is being held on Saturday, June 14 from 1pm (Image: 8TH DARLINGTON GROUP) Erika Milner, Group Scout Leader, said: “We’re looking forward to seeing the Green bustling once again with games, laughter and the scent of burgers.
“Whether you’re trying your luck at the tombola, showing off your aim on the ring-the-bell or simply enjoying an ice cream in the sun, there’s something for everyone at the Garden Fete.”
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In the days leading up to the event Beavers Cubs and Scouts will be delivering programmes door-to-door in Cockerton and Mowden to encourage turnout and raise awareness.
The group will also take a commemorative whole-group photo in early July to mark its 110th anniversary.
The Garden Fete is open to all and organisers say it promises to be their biggest yet.