PEEBLES Scout Group have issued an SOS for new volunteers to prevent the closure of some packs.

Building work on the long awaited new Scout Hall is progressing well and the Group are looking forward to taking up residence after the summer break.

However unless new volunteers come forward to take up assistant leader positions, two of the Group's sections could be in jeopardy – Monday Beavers and the Scout section.

Group Scout leader James Adams told the Peeblesshire News: “Our group is one of the largest Scout Groups in the Borders however in the last few weeks two of our leaders have advised me that due to changes in their work schedules they will unfortunately be forced to stand down from their involvement in their sections at the end of June.

“I fully understand their position and are deeply indebted to both of them for the time, effort and dedication they have shown to the Peebles Scout Group over many years.

“This would mean that come September both sections would no longer be able to function with the remaining leadership."

Both of the groups have a strong number of members, and even a waiting list, but like many other scouting groups across the country, a shortage of adult volunteers gives them an uncertain future.

And the number of young people benefitting from scouting in the future could be heavily reduced.

The Peebles pack thought they had overcome their biggest challenge with the replacement of the former Scout Hall.

The previous premises dated back to 1911 and, despite being extensively refurbished in 1957, weren't deemed fit for purpose.

Finally after more than 15years of fundraising and generous donations the group raised over £193,000 to pay for the building of a new, modern Scout Hall.

James added: “We are desperately hoping that new volunteers will come forward otherwise we will be moving back to our new hall as a much smaller Group than we envisaged when the building work started.

“Volunteers will receive training and support but above all it is fun and an exciting experience but also allows you to give something back to the community.”

The Group need to recruit two assistant Beaver leaders and two assistant Scout leaders.

Both sections meet on a Monday evenings - Beavers 6.15pm to 7.15pm and Scouts 7.30pm to 9pm.

The level of commitment needed to be a leader is usually one evening a week in term time with a few other time slots for planning and special events.

If you can help or are want to find out more contact James Adams by email on gsl@peeblesscouts.co.uk