Seaton’s Scout group is growing – in more ways than one.

Not only are the numbers of Cubs, Scouts and Beavers increasing – they are also being helped to create their own wildlife garden on a previously neglected piece of land behind their hut in Scalwell Lane.

The garden will be a haven for birds, animals and insects, with plants to provide them with food and shelter. It will also be a place for the Scouts, Cubs and Beavers to learn about nature and take part in outdoor activities such as firelighting, cooking and whittling wood. There are plans for a willow shelter, raised beds for growing flowers and vegetables, a grassy area for games and a hard-standing space, along with fruit trees and a compost heap.

The garden project has come about thanks to the Seaton Visitor Centre Trust, which is keen to support wildlife and educate young people about the natural environment. Just before Christmas it contacted Nancy Craven, East Devon District Commissioner for the Scouts, to offer some funding.

Nancy said: “When I said ‘yes, please’ they came straight over and put us in touch with some other people who could help.”

The Trust has now presented the Scouts with £1,000 which will cover the cost of clearing rubbish from the land and removing trees affected by ash dieback. It has also said it will help with further funding as the garden project develops.

Meanwhile the Scout group itself is thriving. Last year, when the Beaver colony had dwindled to just three members, Nancy stepped in to help. A taster evening and other activities over the winter months attracted 15 new Beavers and three new volunteer leaders, Angie Ollive, Laura Joyce and Greg Evans, which Nancy described as a ‘fantastic’ result.

East Devon’s scout groups are all run by volunteers and are always on the lookout for new helpers. There are openings for people wanting to work directly with the young people, and also for those who would like a more behind-the-scenes role, helping with admin or the maintenance of the hut and garden. Anyone interested in finding out more can email nancy.craven@devonscouts.org.uk or call her on 07767 688240.