Great Glen scout book raises cash for Rainbows

A Leicestershire Scout Leader inspired to write a book during lockdown has raised £700 for Rainbows from its sales.

At the age of 13 in 1978, Phil Reed joined Great Glen Scout Group. He is still there 43 years later as Group Scout Leader.

He has now written a book called 1st Great Glenn Scout Group 100 years of scouting, which showcases the group’s history.

The book includes extracts from the original handwritten logbook, recollections from youth and adult members past and present, tales from summer camps over the years and write-ups about some of the group’s long-standing leaders.

“A few years ago I had said that I would put a book together,” said Phil. “Then in 2020 Covid came along and afforded me the time to put pen to paper. The cover of the book was designed by a nine year old Cub, following a competition held within the group.”

All 150 copies of Phil’s book have been sold with the profits donated to our charity.

Phil added: “I wanted to choose a children’s charity because our Scout movement is associated with young people, and also because Pauline Wells, who was Great Glen Cub Leader in the 70s and 80s, was involved in the foundation of Rainbows.

“We also had a talk from Rainbows and a great deal was learnt by all and the Scouts got to understand the work of the hospice.”

Jenny Ball, Rainbows Community Fundraiser, added: “I would like to thank Phil for choosing Rainbows to benefit from the sales of his book, which is a great read. We rely on supporters like him and the Great Glen Scouts to be able to provide our services to hundreds of children, young people and their families.”