A new leader, Craig Humpleby, 36, of 1st Harrow and Wealdstone Scout Group, in Clamp Hill, Stanmore, provides a host of activities for 10-14 year-old boys and girls. His urgent appeal is for new recruits to turn the tide of dwindling numbers. A father of three and a navel officer, of Stanmore, said : "I have just taken over and we currently have only seven members. It is a real shame because we have such brillient facilities here.
"Our scout house and the land were given to use in the 1930s by a rich landowner, so we have low overheads and can provide cheaper activities.
"Our organisation is all about helping young people reach their full potential in all aspects of life.
"We help to create responsible leaders and youngsters, who grow into good citizens and are an asset to the community.
"There is more to it than just learning to tie knots."
This is one of the oldest group in the country and was started in 1908.
Mr Hempleby is confident that new scouts could be enticed to join, and he wants families to go and see what the group has to offer. Mr Humpleby has been involved in the scout and cub organisations since he was eight years old, and his three children has followed in their father's footsteps. He said : "we have a lot to offer.
"We go camping, hiking, sailing, canoeing and orienteering, and are looking to organise more regular activities.
"For some children the scouts offer the only chance for them to get out into the countyside and enjoy themselves in a healthy, supervised environment".
Find out more by calling Tony Hassan on 020 8907 7934.