Denholme Scout troop could be forced to close if it can't find a local woman who is willing to become a leader. The group based in Minorca Mount was issued with the ultimatum by the district commissioner, who told them the troop must have at least one female leader.

The 24 strong Scout troop - which comes under Bingley Scout district - has four girl Scouts, and under the movement's guidelines, at least one of the leaders should be a woman.

The district commissioner - who visited Denholme recently - has the power to close it down if a woman doesn't fill the post.

The town's Rainbow group has already been forced to close down, and many fear the Scout group could be next. Denholme Scout leader, Grah-am Astell-Burt, says the survival of the group is vital for the future generations of young people in the town. He explains: "If we close it will mean 24 kids will be on the streets with nothing to do, and the cubs and beavers could possibly follow on after us.

"We are encouraging any adults to come forward, but we don't want to press gang people into doing it because we need people who are genuinely enthusiastic about the challenge."

All of the Scouts turned out in strength at last week's forum meeting in the Mech-anics Institute, to put across their case. Town mayor, councillor Russell Driver urged local people to answer the call for more leaders.

"We have already lost the rainbows and it would be a crying shame to see the Scouts go the same way. They are our children and our future, so it's up to us to do what we can to help out."

All applicants are screened with successful candidates advancing to train as a leader. Anyone interested in becoming a Denholme Scout leader should contact Graham Astell-Burt on 01274835411.

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