Appeal to save Moray Beaver colony
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YOUNGSTERS in a Moray village have been “devastated” by the prospect of their Beaver colony being closed down unless a new leader can be found.
The potential closure of the Fochabers Beavers group is being seen as a blow to the Speyside community, and an appeal has been launched in a bid to save it.
Youngsters as young as six who enjoy the activities provided at the group, meeting last week for what might be the last time, were upset that the Beavers may have to fold.
Current leader Dougie McPhee, who has been in charge of the group for the past 10 years, has been forced to step down from the role due to work commitments.
Lindsay Lyall, whose daughter, Katie, attends the group, said: “He is an inspirational leader, and has a talent for bringing out the best in all the youngsters he works with. Dougie is standing down as leader due to his work commitments, but he is keen to keep the Beavers running and pass on the leadership to another pair of hands.
“The kids love it, and they would be devastated if it was to close.”
Mr McPhee, who also leads Scout and Explorer groups in the community, ran three sessions a week and often took his groups on overnight, weekend and week-long camps, hikes and other activities, as well as planning, preparing and leading courses in Scouting leadership.
He said that an appeal issued through the village over the past three months for a new leader had been unsuccessful, and it looked as if last week’s Beavers meeting would be the last for a group which had been going for almost 20 years, with members aged from six to 16.
“The Beavers love coming down for an hour each week and taking part in a programme of events which prepares them for the next stage of Scouting,” he said.
He believes that if the group does close, it could have social implications in the Fochabers area.
“There seems to be concern on the part of the public about young people’s attitudes, negativity, laziness and anti-social behaviour.
“But there are lots of young people out there making good use of their time in sports clubs, social clubs and youth organisations. They are trying to improve themselves and have a positive impact on their own lives and the lives of others.
“Young people need to be out enjoying themselves, whether it’s Beavers or other groups. The point is that there aren’t many for this age group.
“Losing the Beavers will be a blow both to its members and to the village, and we hope that this appeal will see somebody coming forward to chat about the role and what it entails.
“It is a rewarding role. There is training involved, but the reward is that you have a positive influence on young people.”
Parents of Fochabers Beavers past and present made donations to mark Mr McPhee’s service to the group, and a presentation was made to him at last week's meeting.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Beavers should contact Milne’s Primary School.
