Friends of Strathaven Scouts appeal for new members to join.

Jan 28 2010 by Sandra Walls, Hamilton Advertiser

FORMER Scout members in Strathaven are being invited to catch up on old friends. For the Friends of Strathaven Scouts (FOSS) are appealing for new members. FOSS formed in 1995 and now have over 150 members.

Reunions are held each year, the first being a repeat ascent of Schiehallion in 1996 which marked the 40th anniversary of Strathaven Scouts' first official hill climb. The reunions started as day events, but have developed into entertaining weekends.

One of the main events organised by FOSS is the annual Round Stra'ven 50 charity cycle. First held in 2002 it has raised £29,000 providing funds for Strathaven scouts and guides, plus local charities.

In 2008 almost £4000 was donated to the charity Health Help International (HHI), run by FOSS member Ron Prosser, to work with physically and mentally disabled children in India.

The FOSS Adventure Section was established in 2009 and is the activity wing.

A total of 28 past members of the Group are signed up to the FOSSAS Facebook Group and 15 members from all over the UK have attended events. Membership is open to ex-members aged 18+ and is free to under-21s or until members begin work. Any former Venture or Explorer Scouts who wants to stay in touch, hang out with old friends and meet new ones, can find FOSS on Facebook and see photos and video clips of group activities.