Groups:Fakenham Wensum Scout Group

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Originally formed in 1923 as 1st Fakenham, the Group was re-registered in 1963 as Fakenham Wensum. In late 2006 the Group opened an Air Scout section, targeting the interests of several of the Scouts. In 1999 the Group was one of the first to open its doors to girls.

Fakenham Wensum
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Type Scout
Sections Beavers
Location Fakenham, Norfolk
District Central Norfolk
Country United Kingdom
Continent Europe
Date Founded 1923/1963
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In 2003 the Group lost it's active Venture Scout unit, with the formation of Explorer Scouts. For a short time an unofficial Senior Scout section returned to the Group, until this avenue was closed and the Senior Scouts were instructed to join the District Explorer unit, which met about 20 miles away - making transport almost impossible, and resulting in these Scouts leaving the movement.

In 2007 the Group supported, with equipment and leader support, the establishment of a new Group in Little Snoring. At the District Centenary Camp, leaders from Fakenham Wensum hosted several Scouts, Cubs and Beavers from Little Snoring. Members of the Group also attended the World Scout Jamboree, with the Chairman working as a member of the site staff. Sadly the option of applying for youth places was not extended to the Group.

During the Summer of 2007, the Leaders, some of the Scouts and an Explorer Young Leader refurbished the interior of the Headquarters - fitting a new kitchen, stub wall, notice boards and furniture. A new fire pit was constructed and a social evening was held, resulting in increased interest and support in the Group from the local community. Several fundraising events were arranged by the leaders and the Scouts, ensuring that the Group was financially secure.

By late 2007 the Group was one of the largest in the Central Norfolk District, with Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, several Young Leader Explorer Scouts and a number of potential Air Explorers interested in joining the Movement. A request was made for the Group to host an Air Explorer section, but this was denied by District.

In early 2008 a meeting was held between the District Commissioner and representatives of Fakenham Wensum and Little Snoring. As a result of this meeting the majority of leaders at Fakenham Wensum resigned and, following the advice of the District Commissioner that they should concentrate on "grass-roots scouting" opened a new Group under the Baden-Powell Scouts' Association.

By November 2008 there was only an active Beaver Scout section at Fakenham Wensum, with Cubs and Scouts having closed due to falling numbers and lack of adult support. In January 2009 a combined Cub and Scout section began to operate, using paid leadership and parental volunteers. Falling numbers at three local Scout Groups led to the merger of 1st Sculthorpe, Little Snoring and Fakenham Wensum in September 2009.