Latest News

 Read the latest entries in our news feeds...
PIP Group PIP Beavers PIP Cubs PIP Scouts PIP Explorers All - Select the section you wish to read about

  • Message from Fr Philip and Janet    (07/12/2011)
    Fr Philip and Janet would like to say a VERY big thank you for the gift tokens and all your very kind words at the end of the Christmas Service in church last night.

    It has been a privilege to be a small part of Scouting & Guiding in Coggeshall over these years and we are so conscious of all the huge amount of hard work you put in each week for the young people of Coggeshall and beyond.

    It seems to me that the young people who have grown up through the groups you run turn out to be thoroughly good and responsible people and that is all credit to your example and dedication.

    One of the bible readings set for 6th Dec (St Nicholas Day) says “As for you who follow God’s way, pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” (1 Timothy 6) – this seems really apt and describes something of what I’ve seen being encouraged by you all in Scouting & Guiding here – long may it continue!

    Our farewell service is on Sunday 29th January at 10am in church – we’d be delighted if you can join us so that we can say a proper ‘goodbye’ after nearly nine years living in Coggeshall which has been our home, and where Janet & I and Ben & Samuel have made so many friends. We will miss you all!

    Have a good Christmas,

    Love from us,

    Fr Philip & Janet

  • ShelterBox Update    (30/11/2011)
    Latest from ShelterBox - The money raised by Legend Explorers has now gone towards 20 ShelterBoxes deployed to Haiti, Pakistan, Colombia, Japan, Brazil, Libya, and Kenya. Box number 4909 has been solely paid for by the money raised by Legend Explorers and was send out to Kenya.

    [font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Kenya -- Shelterbox 18/11/2011 - Drought and famine conditions are easing across the Horn of Africa thanks to continuing rains but hundreds of thousands of people remain displaced since the crisis began last June. [/font">[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">ShelterBox responded immediately, deploying a ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) to Kenya to assess the country’s needs for emergency shelter. Within two months 7,000 tents were set up in Dadaab, one of the largest refugee camps in the world, and the last ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) returned mid-September. [/font">

  • New resources executive committee members    (29/11/2011)
    A number of resources have been produced to assist members of executive committees. They are available from Member resources and as print to order items via the Info Centre on-line catalogue.

    - On-line Resources -

  • James Willis Collects his Silver    (29/11/2011)
    Last night James Willis of Legend Explorer Scouts collected his Silver DofE award at the Colchester Town House.

    After months of hard work James Willis has finally collected his Silver DofE Award at Colchester Town House.

    Watched on by Family and friends James did them proud collect a well deserved Silver DofE Award.

    This is only the second time in recent years an Explorer from Legend Explorer Scout Unit has gained their Silver DofE. On top of his DofE Silver James Chief Scout's Diamond Award and he has already started work on his Gold DofE and Queen Scout Award.

    Wll done and good luck James.

  • JOTA/JOTI 13–15 October 2011    (04/10/2011)
    Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) and Jamboree on the Internet (JOTI)

    The JOTA and JOTI are real jamborees during which Scouting experiences are exchanged and ideas are shared. They happen over the same weekend in October every year and are worldwide events. During the weekend, sections normally participate for 48hrs or part thereof.

    The 2011 event is taking place from 13–15 October.
    Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) - 13-15 October 2011

    The Jamboree on the Air is an annual event in which half-a-million Scouts and Guides all over the world make contact with each other by means of amateur radio. Short-wave radio signals carry their voices to virtually any corner of the world.
    The use of amateur radio means that many Scouts grasps the opportunity to discover the skills of wireless radio techniques and electronics, while JOTA is also the only event that offers each individual Scout the opportunity to speak to other Scouts across the world.

    You can register to take part, or find out more information, by emailing jota@scouts.org.uk.
    Jamboree on the Internet (JOTI) - 13-15 October 2011

    Jamboree on the Internet connects Scouts across the world in a similar way to JOTA, but through the means of internet. Volunteer organisations like Scoutlink and Scoutnet provide the necessary technical support and server capacity.

    You can register to take part by visiting www.jotajoti.org. To find out more information please email joti@scouts.org.uk.

  • The John Franklin Cup - Photographic Competition    (30/09/2011)
    Open to all Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorer Scouts

    Rule: The photo must be Scouting related, 1 photo per person.

    Please submit your entry to David Beckett, 26, Queenborough Lane, B/tree by the end of Oct.2011.

    Each Section winner will receive £10 and the overall winner will receive an item of photographic equipment as well as the trophy. The winner will be announced at the Christmas Celebrations, Dec. 2011 and will receive The John Franklin Cup.

  • Essex County Scout Marathon 2011 - Peak District    (26/09/2011)
    Essex County Scout Marathon 2011 - Peak District

    First timers, Legend Explorer Scout Unit take 10th place in the Essex County Scout Marathon! Well done to all the Braintree teams!....

    Explorer Experienced
    • 2nd Braintree Explorers Too 879 points)

    Explorer Novice
    • 10th Legend ESU (332 points)
    • 11th Fury DofE (307 points)
    • 12th Braintree Explorers (307 points)
    • 23rd Rebels DofE (195 points)
    • 29th Braintree Explorers Late Team (158 points)

    Fellowship / Leaders assisted
    • 5th Ladies of Leisure (649 points)

    Network Experienced
    • 2nd Zorro Network (752 points)

    http://www.essexscouts.org.uk/news/articles.php?storyid=9h5Duw

    edited by sdonnelly on 26/09/2011

  • Colin Lewsey    (14/09/2011)
    It was with sadness that we heard that Colin Lewsey, for many years the auditor for Coggeshall Scout Group and the Scout & Guide Executive had passed away.
    Colin was a great supporter of our activities and our thoughts are with his family and especially his wife Margaret at this sad time.

  • Congratulations to David Hewitt!    (14/09/2011)
    CONGRATULATIONS TO DAVID HEWITT

    Last night David Hewitt was awarded the "Award of Merit" for his work with 1st Coggeshall Scout Group. This award is not given out lightly and is award to members of Scouts that in recognition for Outstanding Service.

    Congratulations David, a most deserving award!

  • ShelterBox Update    (09/09/2011)
    Notification from ShelterBox has informed us that the work by 1st Coggeshall Beaver, Cubs and Legend Explorers is now supporting the following:
    • x3 Boxes in Brazil
    • x5 Boxes in Colombia
    • x1 Boxes in Haiti
    • x3 Boxes in Japan
    • x1 Boxes in Libya
    • x3 Boxes in Pakistan
    • x3 Boxes to be deployed
    Thank you again everyone.

  • The Essex Challenge is back!    (18/08/2011)
    The Essex Challenge is back, brought to you by the County’s Youth Programme Team to challenge and inspire you with your programme planning. This time The Essex Challenge will run from September 2011 through to August 2012.

    The aim of The Essex Challenge is for each young person in a Section to complete at least one of the activities for each month and in doing so earn themselves a special badge which they can wear on their uniforms. We have given each month a theme with two activities to choose from but it is entirely up to you how you want to complete the activities; you could do both activities each month, or do two months in one, it’s up to you. Beaver Scouts celebrate their 25th birthday in 2011 so we have added in an extra activity, giving Beaver Scouts 25 to choose from – why not challenge your Colony to do all 25 as part of your celebrations.

    To help you keep on top of your awards records we have provided the badges/ awards/programme zones that each activity falls in so you can tie them in to your Balanced Programme (you’ll just need to check them against the requirements).

    More support materials, resources and tips can be found at www.essexscouts.org.uk/challenge (coming soon) to accompany many of the activities and remember to upload your stories and photos at www.essexscouts.org.uk/articles.

    Information about ordering The Essex Challenge badges will be made available over the coming months.

    Printed booklets for The Essex Challenge have been distributed to Assistant District Commissioners for Beavers, Cubs and Scouts on Thursday 7th July, please contact your relevant ADC to arrange delivery. One booklet has been printed for each Beaver Colony, Cub Pack, Scout Troop, Explorer Scout Unit as well as Group Scout Leaders, District Commissioners and other roles who directly support the youth sections.

    Essex Scouts Link - http://www.essexscouts.org.uk/news/articles.php?storyid=9h9BtQ

  • The 54th JOTA / 15th JOTI 2011    (01/08/2011)


    The 54th Jamboree On The Air will take place on 15 and 16 October 2011. This year’s theme is: Peace, Environment and Natural Disasters.
    An exciting activity that focuses on the strength of Scouting: to act and support in unforeseen circumstances. Scouts are prepared.

    Why are Scouts always there first when disaster strikes?

    There are Scout groups nearly everywhere, well organized, with good contacts in the local community. The Scouts are usually trained in basic first-aid medical techniques, orienteering and they have the material that is needed to set up a temporary shelter real quick: tents, cooking material, construction material, it is all there, waiting for the next troop camp, or, yes, it can be used in case of emergency.

  • Explorers Take to the Skies    (25/07/2011)
    Legend Explorers ended the Summer Term with a flight in a glider. Members went to Rattlesden Gliding Club and experienced the joy of gliding over the Suffolk Countryside. Due to a strong cross-wind we where towed into the skis instead of being shot up by the winches. This was an "amazing" experience and one I'd recommend everyone to do!



    edited by sdonnelly on 27/07/2011

  • Scouts go down hill at Ipswich    (25/07/2011)
    1st Coggeshall Scout are enjoying their Summer Camp. Fires, open cooking, building shelters and of course the Ski Slopes at Ipswich. There are a lot other photos that we will upload soon!


    http://www.1stcoggeshall.org.uk/images/photos/ScoutsSkiSlope_001.jpg

  • Coggeshall Scout and Guide Joint Executive    (08/07/2011)
    Please read the attached letter important information from Coggeshall Scout & Guide Joint Executive. Positions needed to be filled!


    Letter

    edited by sdonnelly on 08/07/2011

  • Donor Awareness    (29/06/2011)
    Legend ESU are looking at creating a Donor Awareness badge. We are working through what needs to be done and we are getting close.
    • Create Requirements Check
    • Create Programme Ideas Check
    • Design Badge Check
    • Get others interested Check
    • Have HQ agree badge and documents Check
    • Have NHSBT agree requirements and badge Check
    • Get District Commissionor to agree Check
    • Get County Commissioner to agree .........
    If you want to see what we have so far, check it out - HERE

  • Cub Scouts Enjoy Mega Experience    (29/06/2011)
    Over one thousand Cub Scouts from across Essex have taken part in the Counties Mega Camp at Skreens Park Activity Centre.

    The young people, all aged between 8 and 11, took part in over 35 different adventurous activities from climbing to canoeing.
    Supported by 150 adult volunteers, tents were pitched Friday night and entertainment laid on for the participants who attended from all corners of the County.
    Saturday morning started early with the smell of fried breakfasts wafting across the site ahead of a full day of activities. Whilst the night had been damp, the sun soon came and by teatime everyone had dryed out and was slightly toasted.
    In the evening the young people enjoyed a traditional camp fire and an extreme fire display by a circus skills team.
    Sunday morning started in much the same way as Saturday, but also with a time for reflection as the participants prepared for another morning full of challenging activities. The sun came out to welcome the days visitors – a police dog display team and two visits from the police helicopter.
    Rebecca, 8 and Millie, 9 from 1st Pitsea & Vange Cubs said "We've had a great time, we even went Caving"
    Sam Morris, Assistant County Commissioner for Cub Scouts and event organiser said "MegaCamp is a fantastic opportunity for Cub Scouts to share in the outdoor adventure of Scouting with hundreds of people from across Essex – this year's SuperHeroes theme gives them a chance to have fun and explore the real heroes of society"
    The weekend finished Sunday afternoon with a parachute drop by the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Free Fall Parachute Display Team.
    See the Pobcast

  • Up, Up and away    (27/06/2011)
    23rd July 2011 - Legend Explorers are taking to the Skies. With our friends at Rettleden Gliding Club, we are going to up, up, and away.

  • Legend do JOTT - 14th Jamboree On The Trail.    (17/05/2011)
    This Legend ESU took part again in JOTT their second one (and this year the badges where better). Thanks to all the lads that turned out to support this event. Walking the footpaths of Marks Hall ensuring that the markers where in the right place.


    What is JOTT? - Jamboree On The Trail is an annual day for the World Scout Movement to hike together. All Scouts, whatever their age and wherever they may be in the world, are invited to participate in whatever way they can. Beaver Scouts could visit a local park, walking the trails and playing games. Cub Scouts could visit a local nature trail as part of a weekend camp. A Scout Troop might check out a hiking trail while working on badge requirements. An Explorer Unit might make a Service Project out of restoring or maintaining a hiking trail. In their own way, everyone will be hiking the same direction; towards a better future through Scouting.


    JOTT is held on the second Saturday of May each year.

  • Forums update    (17/05/2011)
    The Forum section have been updated and now has improved iPhone, iPad and BlackBerry support.

  • St George Rugby!    (23/04/2011)
    Members of 1st Coggeshall Cubs and Scouts joined 1st Great Notley Scouts, 3 Rivers and Legend Explorers on a St Georges Day rugby game trip at Twickenham. London Wasps vs Bath charity game in aid of armed forces charities. A Full day of rugby, Heather Small, matching bands, World Records and renewal of Promise in the heart of English Rugby!

    Thanks to Kate Stevens for arranging the coach!

    Let's see those badges displayed with pride!!!

    Happy St Georges Day to everyone in Scouting.

    edited by sdonnelly on 25/04/2011

  • Young ShelterBox is delighted to publish the first    (04/04/2011)
    Young ShelterBox is delighted to publish the first winning article of our ShelterBox Journo scheme. This month’s winning article was written by Vee Tames who wrote the following piece to summarise our work in Japan. Young ShelterBox would also like to congratulate Vee and everyone else who entered, providing us with a fantastic choice of articles to choose from.

    Read Vee's article here


    ShelterBox Journo offers young people the fantastic opportunity to develop their journalist skills and write for the website of an international disaster relief charity! To find out more about how you can get involved.

  • GreenFootPrint Legend!    (28/03/2011)
    Legend ESU have been awarded the GreenFootPrint Award after completing all the required components.

    After working on their ShelterBox Challlenge badge and passing information about Climate Change to other local groups, Legend Explorer Scouts have been awarded the GreenFootPrint Award.

  • Congratulations On Completing The Essex Challenge    (07/03/2011)
    Over 1100 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer Scouts from across the County all took part and completed 12 months of themed challenges during 2010 so Essex Scouts put together a roll call of those sections that completed the challenge.

    Legend ESU is one of only 5 Explorer Units in Essex to complete this Challenge - WELL DONE ALL!

    Essex Scouts New Article - http://www.essexscouts.org.uk/news/articles.php?storyid=9hpCvQ

    edited by sdonnelly on 07/03/2011

  • New Tigers in Town    (18/02/2011)
    The Coggeshall Tiger Beaver’s and leaders were delighted to receive Adam Edwards, Matty Self, Harry Pikney and Guy Anderson into their Colony on Thursday night (17 February). Adam, Matty, Harry and Guy were all invested and welcomed into the worldwide family of scouting in front of their parents and relatives.


    CHIL

  • Bronze Award    (10/02/2011)
    Once again we are delighted to announce that three more Beavers have earned their prestigious Chief Scouts Bronze Award. Kian Kinsella, Charlie Butler (both now with Coggeshall Cubs) and Harry Jones, received their badges and certificates from Mary McCann the Braintree ADC at St Peters Church on the 10 February.

    The official county presentation will take place later this year.

    Chil

  • New Name    (10/02/2011)
    This term the Coggeshall Beavers were given the opportunity to give their colony a name. We gave them a choice of over 20 varied animal names taken from the ‘Scout Patrol list’ ranging from Cobra, Wolf, Bulldog to my favourite Cobra. However, we went with the most popular name of the night ‘Tiger’

    So from now on the Colony will be called ‘1st Coggeshall Tiger’s, Beaver Colony’ raaaaaaaah

    Chil

    edited by sdonnelly on 10/02/2011

  • 25 Years of Beavers!!    (07/02/2011)
    As you are aware the Guides have recently celebrated their centenary, and a few years prior to that the Scouts had theirs, well 2011 is even more exciting. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the Beavers, aimed at boys and girls aged 6-8, which allowed the younger brothers and sisters of the Cubs and Scouts to show that they could have fun too.

    Through Beavers children can learn skill that could help them in later life for example, the beavers have recently made sandwiches and pizzas and they attended a sleepover at the church, this sleepover was organised by the Legend Explorers and raises over £400 for the emergency charity 'Shelter Box'.

    Over the past few months I have been a young leader at 1st Coggeshall Beavers and it’s made me remember all my great times when I was a Beaver some of the people that I met at Beavers are now my best friends and I would not be me if it wasn't for my time in the Scout Association, not just Beavers. I think that there will always be Scouts and Cubs, and there will always be little brothers and sisters wanting to have a go.

    George Styles
    Braintree Young Leader
    Legend Explorer Scout

  • Scouting Magazine - February/March 2011    (31/01/2011)
    Scouting Magazine - February/March 2011: The Founder's Day issue

    Latest copy of the Scouting Magazine is now out. With a special report from a camp with Scouts with special needs, advice on lightweight expeditions and how to sustain your Scout Group by being sustainable.

    http://www.scouts.org.uk/cms.php?pageid=3151

  • For all iPhone users....    (11/01/2011)
    Two things for all you iPhone users to look at.

    1. All the 1st Coggeshall Forums are now iPhone enabled and you should be able to see everything you need on you favourite device.
    2. New application - Bear Grylls, Bear Essentials By Chillingo Ltd - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bear-grylls-bear-essentials/id405049865?mt=8

  • County acknowledges Legend's work with ShelterBox    (17/12/2010)
    "I am personally delighted to hear of your achievements and would like to come andmeet the unit and hear about all you have done. Some publicity would be great too. Thanks and best wishes to all at Legend ESU for all you have done on behalf ofShelterBox."

    Rob. Freake - County Global Advisor + ShelterBox Champion

    edited by sdonnelly on 09/01/2011

  • Explorer Scouts Nail It    (27/11/2010)
    Legend Explorers start on a new track for 2011 by taking on the NEW Entrepreneur Challenge Award!

    The Entrepreneur Challenge aims to develop Scouts’ nature for enterprise through activities which enable them to set up, or create an idea for, a Scouting enterprise or business. Scouts will need to demonstrate an aptitude for understanding the Mind for Business principles.

    After unknowingly starting this off with the "String Handcuff", they took on the challenge of "Balancing Nail". The task was to try and balance 14 nails on the head of one nail hammered into a block of wood. That was the challenge, after working in pairs a new total of 18 nails was managed!



  • Legend Explorer Shelter the Beavers    (22/11/2010)
    ShelterBox fund raising event by Legend Explorer Scout pulls in £400....
    Legend Explorer Scouts hosted a Sleep Over for 1st Coggeshall Beavers in St. Peter-ad-Vincula Church in Coggeshall.
    The Explorers built a shelter out of old pallets, bits of wood and cardboard, all in aid of the ShelterBox charity. The shelter was then used, along with tents for a Beaver Sleep Over allowing 16 Beavers to gain their Nights away badge and work toward their International Partnerships award.
    Money was raised by asked for donations from everyone who slept over and then followed up with asking for donations from the people of Coggeshall in return for some very lovely home make cakes.
    Legend Explorer Scout have busted a gut recently and taken their fund raising from just over £200 to a staggering £975.00,
    With each ShelterBox costing £590, Legend are wondering if they can push their fund the extra hundred pound to be able to supply 2 ShelterBoxes.
    Are you willing to help them?
    http://www.JustGiving.com/LegendExplorers

  • WINTAC 2010    (09/11/2010)
    Last weekend, over 300 Explorer Scouts and their Leaders enjoyed a Halloween themed WINTer Activty Camp at Thriftwood Campsite.

    On Friday evening, after arriving at site, and the Explorer Scouts having put up their tents - WINTAC started with an opening ceremony down on the subcamp field, followed with everyone heading to the entertainment marquee where there were local bands playing on the main stage.
    After a rainy night, Saturday morning greeted the Explorer Scouts with glorious sunshine, and allowed them to take part in some new activities, with all the usual Scouting favourites.
    Amongst the activities on offer at Thriftwood were Pedal Cars, Archery, Climbing, The Cave Maze, Trampolining, Water Walkerz, The Sky Hi Walk and the Cresta Run.
    The WINTAC Team had also laid on a few different activities, including a gladiators challenge, and had professionals in to run a DJ workshop and a break dancing workshop.
    The night fell, and WINTAC was transformed into a Halloween Ball, with prizes for best fancy dress costumes, plus entertainment with the 'WINTAC's got Talent' competition.
    Essex Scouts Photo Library

  • Twitter    (08/11/2010)
    Legend ESU are experimenting with Twitter. See if it's any use to us and see if the members follow it... http://www.twitter.com/LegendESU

  • Legend Rises To The Challenge    (26/10/2010)
    Legend Explorer Scout Unit are rising to the Challenge to complete the ShelterBox Challenge 2010, after taking on the set of challenges laid out by ShelterBox and incorporated this into their programme to complete 12 challenges.
    Using the charities challenge and the Essex Challenge Badge as a basis to build their programme on for the past couple of term, Legend have enjoyed a varied programme whilst attempting to raise the £590 needed to purchase a new ShelterBox.
    Now comes the final push. Over the next couple of months the Unit want to raise another £220 so that a local business that has offered to match the total and enable them to purchase two of the much needed boxes.
    What's left!
    1. During a Beaver Sleepover, the Explorers will build a shelter strong enough for 10 Beavers to spend the night in.
    2. For some Christmas fun; the Explorers are at making Christmas cards and then are blasting out a few carols.
    All of this is a fund raising exercise - Can you help?


  • You think you know Scouting... Think again....    (07/10/2010)
    What are the myths of Scouting? Have you ever thought how can we encourage more volunteers to join? Take a look at the latest volunteer recruitment video, direct from The Scout Associations You Tube account... Watch it and pass it on...

    '
    Video ID=_8NB4gHSWfY

  • Assistant Leaders take on the New Forest    (04/10/2010)
    Natalie and Vikki the new Explorer Scout Assistant Leaders where part of the one thousand boots worn by Essex Scouts have been making tracks across the New Forest in Hampshire this weekend, for the annual Essex County Marathon, a hiking competition with a difference. Members of Essex Scouts aged from 14 to 62, from all corners of the County, hiked from base to base, covering an area of 30 square miles. At each base they had to complete a new and often bizarre challenge to gain points for their team, ranging from general knowledge quizzes to silly games and group tasks. The weekend's challenge is not just the bases, but also planning their own routes, meals, and walking with full camping kit. The teams are graded into different categories depending on their own experience level, allowing members at all ages to experience a challenging weekend full of fun and adventure. http://www.1stCoggeshall.org.uk/images/photos/Marathon-2010-18.jpg

  • 100 years of Girlguiding - A welcome to all Scouts    (29/09/2010)
    An invitation to all past, current and future members of Girlguiding (and their families) - and our Scouting brothers and sisters - to celebrate
    100 years of Girlguiding
    at St. Peter ad Vincula Church, Coggeshall
    on Saturday 9th October 2010
    at 2.30pm
    Please stay for refreshments at the back of the church at the end of the service.

  • Legend picks up Community Spirit Award    (09/09/2010)
    Lewis Elmes of Legend Explorer Scout Unit will be awards 2nd Place in the Young Achiever Award by Greenfields Community Housing. This is for all his hard work in obtaining he Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, help with Coggeshall Scouting, and his very near completion of his Queen Scout award (the highest award achievable by an Explorer Scout) Greenfields Community Spirit Awards - The Community Spirit Awards are all about recognising residents in the district who are making positive changes to their community. There are four categories of award:
    • Young Achiever Award (under 18’s only)
    • Outstanding Contribution to Resident Involvement Award
    • Good Neighbour Award
    • Community Award
    Venue: Alec Hunter Humanities College, Stubbs Lane, Braintree Date and Time: Saturday 11th September, 2:00pm – 3.30pm

  • 10 Beavers gain Chief Scout Bronze award    (19/07/2010)
    10 Beavers gain Chief Scout Bronze award 10 Coggeshall Beavers recently gained their Chief Scout Bronze award which is the highest honour available at this level. Rafe Donnelly, William Brassington, James Raine, Marcus Fox and Kyle Jarman were presented with their prestigious badge and certificate by the District Beaver Scout leader Mary Mccann on Thursday 15 July. Billy Seager, Elliott Adams, Ethan McCabe, Isobel Herod and Liam Chapman who all recently moved onto Cubs were presented with their award by the District Cub Scout leader Neil Hilton at their investiture evening on the 19 July. To earn this badge the Beavers had to complete all six challenge badges, including Fitness, Global and Outdoor.

  • Legends become Young Fighters    (16/07/2010)
    Jamie 'Pyro' Hughes (Young leader for the Beavers) and Tom 'Cpt Chaos' Anderson were awarded their Young Fire Fighters certificates on 14th july 2010 at halstead Firestation. After completing a 13 week course teaching the same skills, drills, and techniques as full time Fire Fighters are taught. This award has been used by Jamie as the Skills section of His Bronze DofE.

    Congratulations to you both!!!!

    edited by sdonnelly on 08/11/2010

  • Members voted on...    (25/06/2010)
    The Scout executive has had new members voted on during the last AGM.
    • Sarah Knights
    • Fr Philip Banks
    • James Butler


  • 1st Coggeshall - Forums update    (14/06/2010)
    Just to let you all know we are in the progress of updating the "Forums" section of the website. The main benefit of this update means that the forums are now iPhone compatible.

  • Scout and Guide AGM - 16th June 8:00pm    (14/06/2010)
    Coggeshall Scout & Guide AGM and Parents Evening
    Wednesday At the Scout & Guide HQ, Windmill Fields
    Hear the latest news about the new building for Scouting & Guiding in Coggeshall
    This is an opportunity for you to hear about some of the activities that the Sections have taken part over the past twelve months.
    After the meeting join the Executive for a glass of wine and nibbles.

    edited by sdonnelly on 08/11/2010

  • Explorers receive Chief Scout Awards    (18/05/2010)
    Four members of Legend Explorers Scout have received their Chief Scout Awards: - Lewis Elmes, Diamond Chief Scout, this is the 2nd highest award available to Explorer Scouts. Having complete his Silver DofE and the additional requirements, Lewis is now working hard on his Gold DofE and then the Queen Scout Award! Will he become the 2nd Queen Scout in Coggeshall! - Alex Hewitt, George Styles and James Willis, Gold Chief Scout, having completed the highest award the Scout section can award, these three lads have moved on to Explorers and recently gained their awards.

  • Programmes published    (28/04/2010)
    The Beavers, Cubs and Explorer programmes have now been published for the final term in the current Scout and Guide HQ.

  • Explorers Programme published...    (21/04/2010)
    The new Explorer Programme has been published ready for the new term, including District and County events - view the programme. Also check out all the additional documents for Gilwell 24, Climbing in the Peaks, Summer Camp and the London Scavenger Hunt.

  • Sport Relief    (22/03/2010)
    Congratulations to all who have taken part in this years Sport Relief, both the Explorers and Cubs have run their 1 mile in separate evening in Coggeshall. The Explorers turned out in the dark and rain armed only with their our sense of directions and glow sticks. The Cubs will be running this evening and we wish them all the best.

  • Tree planting in Coggeshall    (12/03/2010)
    Dear Gary Lynes, On behalf of Coggeshall Parish Council and the Sports and Recreation Committee we would all like to personally thank all the Scouts and Explorer Scouts that took part in the tree planting on Saturday 6th March 2010. These trees form the boundaries for the latest play area within Coggeshall. This area is a truly Community creation, with help from local residents, Scouts, Councillors and the general public. It is the view of the Committee that in years to come everyone the village can benefit from such activities and works together to create a better village. We understand that the boys and girls from 1st Coggeshall Scouts who took part are currently doing their Community Challenge Badge and therefore we would like to confirm that all the members listed below have completed the time requirements for this Badge, and have worked with local government and interest groups in the creation of this play area. As you are aware the Parish Council knows that Scouting in Coggeshall is a major asset to the Village and we look forward to working with your Group again. Thank you.

  • Multi-Faith Evening    (05/03/2010)
    The Explorers turned out in force for a Multi-Faith evening on the 26th February. All bar one turned up, along with members of Coggeshall Guides. The evening was supported by Fr Philip Banks from St Peter ad Vincula Coggeshall, presenting a Christian view, and Dr Mateen Durrani from Colchester University, presenting a Muslim view. During the evening a general discussion took place around the differences and similarities between the three main religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. This was an excellent experience, in which everyone was able to take a part, ask questions and discuss answers. A whole variety of aspects of faith and life were aired, including war and peace, women’s rights, science and religion, creation, scripture, ethics and the human spirit. There was also discussion on the idea that the practice of all three religions was often tainted by the culture of their country, and this sometimes negatively affected the true teachings of their scriptures – a good example is that all religions have strong teachings encouraging non-violence, and yet the culture in which they are set sometimes distorts this. At the end of the evening everyone came away having learnt something, and having a better understanding of each others views, thoughts, and religions – and there was an acknowledgement that the many things that we have in common far outweigh the things that divide us. A big thank you goes to Fr Philip Banks and Dr Mateen Durrani for giving up their Friday evening to help us.

  • Happy Birthday - Lord Baden Powell    (22/02/2010)
    Lord Baden Powell - Founder of the international Scouting Movement born 22 February 1857 Full Name: Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell Title: 1st Baron Baden-Powell Nickname: B-P Place of birth: Paddington, London, England Place of death: Nyeri, Kenya Service/branch: British Army Years of service: 1876–1910 Rank: Lieutenant-General More information can be found on Wiki-pedia.

  • Legend Essex and ShelterBox Challenge    (11/02/2010)
    The Legend Explorer Scout Unit have taken up the Essex Scout Challenge by building bridges out of rubbish found in and around the 1st Coggeshall Scout Hunt. During the evening two rolls of Carpet was used to emulate a river, being told that the depth and speed of the river was unknown. The bridge was built from old chair, broken tent poles, rope and cardboard boxes. After construction all members of the unit needed to cross the river and pass over a pretend box of supplies. - Young ShelterBox - Essex Scout Challenge

  • 1st Coggeshall Census    (20/01/2010)
    We have been asked to complete the annual census of all members. To make this easier for everyone can you please email Bradley Rawling with the following information for each child you have at 1st Coggeshall Scout Group: - Forename - Surname - Date of Birth - Ethinic origin - Male/Female - Phone No. - Mobile No. - Address - If you've signed a gift aid form Thank you.

  • Coggeshall Christmas Scout and Guide Service    (10/12/2009)
    I just want to say a big thank you to you and everyone for making Monday night so good – it was such a great mixture of Christmas/scripture and other fun – all the young people did so well! Also, it seemed good to do the service in this earlier part of December. Very best wishes and thanks – and – MERRY CHRISTMAS when it comes! Fr Philip The Reverend Philip Banks Rector & Vicar, Parish of Coggeshall with Marks Hall Rural Dean, Dedham & Tey Deanery Co-ordinator, Chelmsford Course for Spiritual Directors

  • Coggeshall Scout and Guide Christmas Service    (30/11/2009)
    At 6.30pm to 7.30pm on Monday 7th December 2009 - Welcome & Opening Prayer - Father Philip - First Carol - O'Little Town of Bethlehem - Readings - Guide and Scout - Jingle Bells - Rainbows - 12 days of Christmas - Beavers - Jingle Bell Rock - 1st Brownies - Nativity Rap - Cubs - Winter Wonderland - 2nd Brownies - Prayers & Christmas Sermon - Father Philip - Second Carol - Holly and the Ivy (during which there will be a collection) - 12 Christmas Challenges - Scouts - Marys Boy Child - Guides - Tommy Styles - Explorers - Presentation of Awards - Leaders - Thanks - Tim Styles - Final Carol - Ding Dong Merrily on High - Closing Prayer and Blessing - Father Philip

  • PODCAST 007 - WINTAC Message From The Queen    (30/11/2009)
    Join the WINTAC Team for a speech by HRH The Queen who sent a special message to all Explorer Scouts for the closing ceremony of WINTAC. Unfortunately, the closing ceremony didn't take place due to the poor weather conditions on Sunday lunchtime. Her message is now available online for you to enjoy and share, and hope this makes up for the lack of closing ceremony to the event.

    edited by sdonnelly on 08/11/2010

  • Braintree Explorers Headline WINTAC!    (23/11/2009)
    Niall and friends from Braintree were handed a sheet and commanded to create the greatest rock band ever. After much deliberation they decided on the name "Organised Chaos". Band practice ensued at haste. The first songs were mostly about anger at being woken up by pans. However they decided on doing an acoustic version of 'Buck Rogers' by Feeder. When they took the stage the crowd roared, the atmosphere was electric. As the events were drawing to a close Joe the musical element of the band played a solo version of 'La Roux's' song 'In For the Kill' and it was brilliant. Mikey Cohen the voice of the band said, "It was great! The adrenaline was pumping and I really felt alive when I was up there. I am King!" Essex Scouts report on WINTAC - http://www.essexscouts.org.uk/news/articles.php?storyid=8h1B

  • New Scout Hut - Latest News    (17/11/2009)
    On Thursday 12th November 2009 members of all sections of Guiding and Scouting in Coggeshall gathered at Honywood Community Science School to mark the beginning of construction for their new headquarters building. Construction is due to complete in July 2010 and a formal opening ceremony will take place in September 2010. The project, being jointly funded and run with the school is the culmination of over four years work by many people to ensure that young people in Coggeshall have a first class facility to use for many years to come. There are currently over 200 youngsters involved and all sections have waiting lists but lack of available space has restricted growth. The new HQ will have two halls instead of the one at the existing HQ and total floor area is more than twice that available now. The building is designed to the latest standards including accommodating disabled access and will have a fully fitted kitchen as well as a small meeting room. Funding for the building has come from the Scouts and Guides, Honywood School, individual donations and grants from Braintree District Council and Essex County Council. Commenting on the new building Tim Styles, Group Chairman said "This is a very exciting development for Coggeshall and a huge achievement for all involved that construction has now started and will result in a building to support Scouting and Guiding now and in future".

  • Remembrance Service    (11/11/2009)
    Over 100 Scouts and Guides attended the Remembrance Service at St. Peter's Church Coggeshall, giving a guard of honour to the local parishioners as they arrived in the church. Standards where presented along with those of the local Royal British Legion. Fr Philip and the Bishop of Colchester Rt. Rev'd. Christopher Morgan performed the services and thanked the young people for attending and welcomed them to this important act of Remembrance. After the server all sections where represented at the reading of the names at the War Memorial, where a brass salute was played my members of Honywood School.

  • Thank you from St. Peters    (11/11/2009)
    We have received a large thank you from the members from St Peters PTA, for the team of 6 Legend Explorer Scouts who assisted with the stewarding during the Firework display on the 7th November. Various parents and helpers also commented on how nice it was to see ex-pupils back willing to help out.

  • JOTI - 13th Jamboree On The Internet 17-18/10/2009    (13/10/2009)
    The World Scout Jamboree On The Internet (JOTI) is an international Scout Meeting on the Internet which takes places every year on the third weekend of october. This is an official event of the World Organization of the Scout Movement. During that weekend, thousands of Scouts from all over the world meet and communicate with each other over the Internet, using any technologies locally available, from web browsers to e-mail, chat programs, microphones, scanners and digital cameras. Scoutgroups can combine this event with the Jamboree On The Air (JOTA), an event where Scouts can communicate with each other over radio amateur frequencies with the assistance of a local radio amateur crew. Most of the communication takes place over E-mail and in a chat network called IRC, the Internet Relay Chat. JOTI allows you to build friendships with Scouts in other countries and to find out more about their civil and scouting life. Often, these contacts last for years and build the base for upcoming group trips and entreprises. Since 1996, JOTI is an official WOSM event and has a permanent place on the Web Site of the World Scout Bureau. To get the full text of the World Scout Bureau's Memorandum on this year's edition of JOTI (2009), click here. If we've raised your interest, just get a few suggestions from our web site and participate in this year's JOTI. ----- Check out what places Legend Explorers spoke to over the weekend http://gmaps.kaeding.name/saved/LegendESU-JOTI2009

  • Cub Leaders earn their Wood Badges    (30/09/2009)
    During a ceremony following last weeks Cub pack meeting (28th Oct) both Steve and Karen Lawrence where presented with their Wood Badges from David Cohen District Commissioner for Braintree District. - WELL DONE STEVE AND KAREN - A Wood Badge is only presented once a Leader has completed a set of 19 Modules covering all aspects of Scouting. This is a big achievement for everyone undertaking their Leader Training, and requires a lot of support from Leader, Training Advisers, and their families.

  • Over 60 Teams Begin Their Black Mountain Adventure    (28/09/2009)
    Hundreds of Explorer Scouts, Scout Network, Leaders & Fellowship members travelled yesterday to Wales to start the two day self sufficient team backpacking and overnight camping competition. It's the ideal event for expedition practice and includes a non competitive and assisted category for new walkers. With bases spread out across the countryside around Sugar Loaf mountain we hope to bring you updates all weekend on the adventures of the teams from Essex.

  • County Adult Awards Reception    (16/09/2009)
    County Adult Awards Reception 16 September 2009 7:00pm County event to be held at County HQ & Training Centre, Thriftwood. Uniformed event by invitation only for new Wood Badge holders, recipients of Service Awards and presentation of Group Growth Awards. Attended by Peter Awad and Stuart Donnelly from 1st Coggeshall.

  • Cub Programme published    (14/09/2009)
    The new Cub Programme has been published ready for the new term - view the programme.

  • Scouting refutes knife ban claims (ScoutBase)    (09/09/2009)
    Scouting refutes knife ban claims - 08/09/2009 Several incorrect stories have appeared in the media this week reporting a knife ban in Scouting. In fact, Scouting's rules on the subject have not significantly changed since the late 1960s. Knives may still be used by young people and adults during supervised camps and other outdoor activities. Scouting encourages young people to learn to respect knives, and use them sensibly to learn outdoor skills such as fire lighting, shelter building and backwoods cooking. The Movement provides a safe supervised environment in which young people can learn how and how not to use them - including how to avoid injuring themselves and others. The Scout Association does not condone young people carrying knifes on their person as a matter of course, unless there is a specific need for one. Scouting recommends training in the handling of knives not only for young people, but also for their adult leaders. Advice on the use of knives in Scouting is updated periodically and most recently an article appeared in Scouting magazine, the publication that goes out every two months to Scouting's 100,000 adult members. This is part of regular advice and guidance offered to the Movement since the wearing of a knife with uniform was discontinued in the late 1960s. Over the years the advice we have offered is always based around two key points: i) We need to comply with the law of the land (so we remind people of the current legislation). ii) We remind people in which situations it is appropriate to teach young people how to use knives safely and when it is not appropriate to use a knife.

  • Green Footprint Award    (06/09/2009)
    We have been awarded the Silver Award as part of the Green Footprint Award. This makes Legend ESU one of the very first Scout Sections to complete the award in Essex.

  • Leader Training    (06/09/2009)
    I (Stuart) have now completed my Leader Training and have received my Wood Badge from David Cohen. This tool place at the first Explorer meeting after the summer break. Thank you to EVERYONE who has assisted me in obtaining this award, specially David Hewitt.

  • Explorers Programme published...    (27/08/2009)
    The new Explorer Programme has been published ready for the new term, including District and County events - view the programme.

  • Beaver Programme published...    (27/08/2009)
    The new Beaver Programme has been published ready for the new term - view the programme.

  • Leader Changes at Coggeshall    (04/08/2009)
    - Bridgette is stepping down as Beaver Scout leader, and will become Assistant Beaver Scout Leader. - Paul Chapman is moving from ACSL to become our new Beaver Scout Leader. - His wife Bernadette is becoming a new Assistant BSL. best wishes David Hewitt Coggeshall GSL

  • 100 Club Launched    (06/07/2009)
    As launched at the AGM & Parents Evening, Wendy has offered to run a 100 club in support of the new HQ. Please see the attached flyer for more information - 100 Club Letter.

  • Peter Awad receives his Wood Badge    (03/07/2009)
    At a small ceremony during the closing of Beavers last night Peter Awad received his Wood Badge from David Cohen (DC). This makes Peter a fully qualified Leader. What is the Wood Badge?

  • Lost your woggle?    (28/06/2009)
    Explorers who have either lost their woggle or prefer to wear their scarf with a friendship knot. Take a look at the following link, it is a step by step guide to putting a friendship knot in your scarf. Friendship Knot Instructions.

  • Scouts hoping to meet Bear Grylls    (25/06/2009)
    Coggeshall Scouts are hoping to meet Bear Grylls next year, if he visits to open the New Scout and Guide Headquarters being built in Partnership with Honywood Community Science School. The project to build the new HQ is now well advanced and construction should start later this year, finishing in July 2010. David Hewitt Group Scout Leader said “it would be fantastic if Bear could come, he is already a real hero to the Scouts, and to meet him face to face would be incredible for the all the young people we serve.” The Scouts, Guides and School have raised most of the money they need but a final fund raising push will start at the Scout and Guide AGM on 17th June. The meeting starts at 8pm at the current Scout & Guide HQ Windmill fields, Coggeshall. Anyone interesting in supporting can attend the meeting, or donations can be made online at www.justgiving.com/coggeshall. Bear Grylls will be the new Chief Scout of the UK Scout Association. The famous adventurer takes over when current Chief Scout, former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan completes his five year tenure in July 2009. When asked why he chose to volunteer for the UK’s largest mixed youth movement, Bear said: ‘In short, because I love adventure and I love hanging out with good friends. For me this is what Scouting is about.’ Born on 7 June 1974, Bear Grylls will be the youngest ever Chief Scout. He first got involved in Scouting aged eight as a Cub Scout. Bear attributes this time as part of the inspiration behind his adult adventures presenting TV shows such as Born Survivor: ‘So much of who we are as an adult is formed when we are kids,’ said Bear. ‘What Scouting says to people is: “it’s okay to go for it in life”.’

  • Bear Grylls appointed Chief Scout    (25/06/2009)
    The Wiltshire adventurer and TV personality Bear Grylls has been named as the UKs latest Chief Scout. At 34 he will be the youngest person to hold the position. Mr Grylls says he aims to inspire more adults to volunteer as leaders, so the 33,000 young people currently on waiting lists can join Scout groups. He was the youngest Briton to climb Mount Everest, aged 23, and has presented television programmes such as Born Survivor and Escape to the Legion. Mr Grylls from Ramsbury, near Marlborough, was appointed by The Council of the Scout Movement at a special meeting in London and will be expected to promote the policies and benefits of Scouting. He will be invested at a handover ceremony with outgoing Chief Scout Peter Duncan later in the year. "I feel hugely honoured to be asked to take up this role as Chief Scout - it really is a dream come true" "I have always loved helping young people live their dreams and to taste real adventure… as well as getting caked in mud!"

  • NEW 100 Club coming soon    (25/06/2009)
    100 Club coming soon to help raise funds for the new Scout Hut. More details will be announced shortly.

  • New Scout and Guide HQ    (25/06/2009)
    Thanks to all who gave their comments on the draft Heads of Agreement. This has now been sent to our legal prior to being sent to Simon Mason Olivia Pattison, George Styles, Wendy and Tim Style went to support our grant application to Braintree District Council. Both Olivia and George spoke to the meeting and the vote was unanimous so we have another £15,000 towards our target. There will be an article in the Link Magazine next month highlighting our plans.

  • Scout IT Badge    (25/06/2009)
    All levels of the Scouting IT badge are now online at www.itbadge.org.uk This site will help you earn your Staged Activity Badge

  • New Web Site    (25/06/2009)
    The new 1st Coggeshall Web Site goes live, thanks to everyone involved.