Families brought together over 109 years at Sheffield’s oldest scouts group

Family plays an important role at Grenoside Scouts and Guides - the city's oldest scouting group which launched in 1910.
By Nik Farah
Published 13th Mar 2019, 11:48 BST
Updated 13th Mar 2019, 11:53 BST
The Grenoside Scout and Guide Group HQ on Salt Box Lane, Grenoside, where an It's A Knock Out and Gala day was held to raise cash for new headquartersThe Grenoside Scout and Guide Group HQ on Salt Box Lane, Grenoside, where an It's A Knock Out and Gala day was held to raise cash for new headquarters
The Grenoside Scout and Guide Group HQ on Salt Box Lane, Grenoside, where an It's A Knock Out and Gala day was held to raise cash for new headquarters

Generations of Sheffield families have been through its doors in its 109 year history - fathers and brothers, sisters and cousins joining its proud lineage; as well as couples who met, fell in love, and married after first meeting at its weekly gatherings.

Scout leader John married his Cub leader wife Janette in 1990, and now – nearly 30 years on – their daughter Bethany is keeping up the family tradition as assistant scout leader.

Cubs camping in 1973Cubs camping in 1973
Cubs camping in 1973
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Scout and Explorer leader Kit met wife Alison at a Venture Scout disco, and they married in 1987. Both are still involved with the group; Kit with the Scouts, and Alison in fundraising.

Ranger guide Rosy and Venture Scout leader Paul met, and were married in 1985. Both are still heavily involved with the Grenoside group. Paul is the chairman of the Scouts, and Rosie continues to support the group through fundraising.

“We’re proud to be running a hugely successful group, helping to shape local children into trustworthy little people who can go on to make an active contribution to society,” says group Scout leader Dan Hopkins, who himself joined Grenoside as a cub at eight years old. Now aged 44, Dan’s three sons, Alex, Ben and Will, are all also members of the group.

Today, Grenoside Scouts and Guides is still going strong, running seven weekly group meetings from its hut on Salt Box Lane,  and is always on the lookout for volunteers to help out at its various events and activities.

Visit grenosidescoutsandguides.org.uk for more details on the group.