The Barker-Mill Foundation (BMF) has donated £3,000 to help safety-proof the 4th New Forest North Eling Sea Scout hut on the edge of the Testwood Lakes in Southampton.
This donation follows the group unfortunately suffering from vandalism on the pontoon and in the compound last year. Since then, with local support they have upgraded the alarm and CCTV system. The donation from BMF has now enabled the installation of roller shutter doors to ensure full security of the hut and scouts equipment.
The 4th Eling Sea Scouts supports over 130 young people, with the assistance of 40 adult volunteers each week, with a variety of activities on the Testwood Lakes and within the hut. The Barker-Mill Foundation donated to the build of the purpose-built hut five years ago and since then the group has had around 2,000 young people from the Totton area pass through their doors.
Marcus Sly, Group Scout Leader said: “The roller shutter doors have recently been fitted and we’re currently raising funds for the two remaining fire exit doors to be fitted with shutters too. It gives us peace of mind knowing no one can break into the boating shed now and take away or damage our ribs and sailing boats, they are safe and secure. A big thank you to the Barker-Mill Foundation from all of us!”
Tim Jobling, Trustee at the Barker-Mill Foundation said: “It’s great to see the scout hut still going strong after five years and to know so many young people in Totton are benefitting from the activities the group provides.
“It is frustrating to hear they have been victims of vandalism so we were thrilled to be able to provide funds to help protect the hut and equipment to ensure the group can continue to provide fun activities for young people in the area.”