3rd Macclesfield Upton Priory Scouts have once again held their annual Quiz Night, and were joined for the fun-filled evening by local MP, David Rutley.
Over 130 parents, friends and supporters of the troop's Cub, Beaver and Scout members took part in the packed quiz night at Mottram St Andrew Village Hall, answering questions on a range of subjects, including general knowledge and current affairs. As usual, the quiz aimed to raise much-needed funds to support the troop's longstanding ambition to extend and refurbish the scout hut on Whiston Street in Macclesfield town centre, and an impressive £1,400 was raised towards this target on the night.
David learned that, this year, the troop has received an additional funding boost of over £3,500, thanks to the Co-Op's Local Causes scheme, under which the store donates 1 per cent of the total of customers' purchases to local good causes. With £40,000 already raised, this helps to move the troop still closer to its £60,000 goal.
On the night, David was also pleased to see longstanding Group Scout Leader, Richard Hodges, being presented with an award for merit, in recognition of his dedicated and outstanding 20 years of service to the troop, and to Scouting.
There are currently around 120 young people who are members of the troop, aged between 6 and 14, supported by 20 adult volunteers. David discussed with District Scouting Commissioner, Mark Eden, the many rich and rewarding opportunities available in Scouting, both for the young people who take part and for adults who volunteer in running and organising activities. Anyone interested in getting further involved with the troop's activities can contact 3rdmacc@gmail.com for further information.
Speaking after the quiz night, David said, "I was pleased to once again join families and supporters of 3rd Macclesfield Upton Priory Scouts for the annual quiz night and to learn of the encouraging progress being made towards refurbishing and expanding the scout hut. There are so many great opportunities for both young people and adults to learn new skills, make friends and get outdoors through Scouting, and I hope more local residents will get involved with this positive movement.”