A FED up Menston scout master is appealing for help after taking on the role of leader of almost every uniformed group in the village.

Peter Finlay, who runs Menston Sub-Post Office, dons his woggle three times a week to dib dib dib in the various guises of cub leader, assistant scout leader and group scout leader.

Mr Finlay said: "It is a problem that has been going on for two years. To keep the two organisations going it is necessary for me to assist in any way that I can.

"But I find it very difficult some weeks to be able to give the time to them that they need."

"I do enjoy it bit I had envisaged a more administrative role. It is imperative that we have a cub leader who can do it every week."

The number of badges the groups can achieve is also restricted because of the lack of supervision.

Mr Finlay said: "We do some badge work but we are not able to concentrate on it as much as some other groups in Wharfedale because the adults who are there need to keep an eye on the children."

The groups are also relying on the help of parents to make up the numbers of adults per children.

Mr Finlay said: "Parents are there because we have to have a certain number of adults present legally. But it depends on the parents who come along as to whether or not they give some input."

The 18-strong beaver group, made up of youngsters aged five to seven, is also in need of a second leader so they can form another colony.

Mr Finlay said he hopes people will live up to the scout's motto and 'be prepared' to fill the breach.

He said: "We need as many people as possible to step forward.

"It's a challenging thing and the rewards are immeasurable. It's so nice to get on a train and see one of your former cubs or scouts and they still want to talk to you. These are the rewards of scouting."

However, the problems don't end with the cubs and scouts -the rainbows and three brownie packs are also in need of leadership.

Dillis Rawling, district commissioner for the packs, said: "Both groups are running with the help of a parent rotor because most of the packs meet early at 4.30pm and a lot of people cannot make it.

"It is hard work but it is such a lot of fun. The girls are so responsive it is very enjoyable and rewarding.

"We just need someone who can give a few hours a week.

"There are lots of opportunities for world wide travel and even younger people can get involved in leadership."

Anyone interested in becoming a leader should contact Peter Finlay on 01943 872016 or Dillis Rawling on 01943 879112.

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