9th Lymington Sea Scouts celebrate centenary year with boat jumble fundraiser

A SCOUTS group celebrating its centenary year is inviting the community to get involved in its biggest fundraiser.

The 9th Lymington Sea Scouts, set up in 1921 by Robert Hole, provides activities for 120 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, led by volunteers.

Plans to mark the centenary in July are under way but yet to be confirmed as the group had been hesitant to plan too far ahead due to previous Covid restrictions.

Its biggest annual fundraiser, a boat jumble, takes place at its headquarters in Kings Saltern Road on 26th March from 9.30am until midday.

Group Scout leader Anne Pike said: “The annual boat jumble is our big fundraising event and this year, more than ever, we need the support of the local community.

“We rely on the revenue generated to maintain the hall, service equipment and give exciting and challenging opportunities to our young people.”

She added: “In the past, we’ve raised over £15,000 for projects like the replacement RIB fund, which has allowed our Scouts and Explorers to go sailing and power boating on the Lymington River and west Solent.

“These are great activities for building confidence and teamwork amongst the Scouts.”

The group is unusual as it is a Royal Navy-recognised Sea Scout group – an honour they have held since 1939. Out of the 450 Sea Scout groups, only 105 are affiliated with the navy.

The groups are reviewed regularly by a serving Royal Navy officer and on the most recent inspection 9th Lymington was commended as first class. It also noted the young people were “excellent ambassadors”.

As a result they are allowed to fly the red ensign with the crown and anchor, which is also worn on uniforms.

The group enjoys giving back to the community by helping to marshal at local RNLI events and fundraising for local charities.

It also has strong links with Lymington Town Sailing Club and takes part in events such as the Remembrance Day parade.

Boat jumble donations must be in good condition and the group can collect larger items, if necessary.