Barnard Castle Beavers set to lose weekly session without new leader

A NEW leader is being sought for a dale beaver colony which is at risk of losing one of their two weekly sessions.
Barnard Castle Beavers are appealing for a volunteer to come forward who would be willing to spare a couple of hours on Saturday mornings.
As the long-standing Saturday leader is due to leave, a new leader would need to be in place for the beginning of next year. Martyn Maughan has been leading the Thursday night session for almost three years.
He said: “Our current plan is to merge two groups into one. The only way to avoid us going down to one session is to have a new leader in place for 2017 or as soon as possible thereafter. As a Beaver leader my only intention at the outset was to be a parent helper but when I thought about it I had no real reason why I couldn’t do it.
“On occasions balancing everyday life with Beavers is a real chore but seeing the kids grow in confidence, maybe becoming more vocal, conquering a fear of heights, considering others more or sleeping over with their mates, giving parents a night off, is great to see.”
About 30 youngsters are  part of the Beavers who meet at the Scout hut in Wilson Street on Thursdays from 6.15pm to 7.45pm and Saturdays from 10am to 11.30am.
The children are encouraged to make new friends, enjoy new experiences and above all have fun.
Mr Maughan said: “It is a hugely inclusive organisation that is accessible to all.
“Whenever possible the children enjoy the great outdoors. The Bowes Museum grounds are much used and going further afield they are introduced to the beauty of Teesdale and beyond.”
Anyone interested in taking on the role would need to complete a basic portfolio and have to be CRB-checked.
They would be required to cover a one-and-a-half hour session each week during school term time. Prospective leaders are welcome at the sessions to see what they think. Mr Maughan said: “We realise that volunteering on a Saturday is probably off putting for many, therefore we could run the second session early Wednesday or Friday evening.
“As things stand we will be losing our Saturday session in the new year but if you step up this can be avoided.”
For more information contact Mr Maughan on 01833 695713 or 07736084409 or by emailing martynmaughan@yahoo.co.uk.