Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney was among the guests for the official opening of the 1st Rainbow Scout Group Ellan Vannin.

The ceremony was at the Scout Association’s camp site, Mullin ny Cart in Malew.

Island Scout commissioner Guy Thompson said the group had finally come about after years of false starts, holding its first meetings last summer at the camp site in Malew and at All Saints church hall in Douglas.

’The group was formed for children who, through disabilities, cannot join other island Scouting groups,’ he said.

’And it has been made possible by kind benefactors who have enabled the group to purchase uniforms, resources, safety equipment, a climbing wall and much more and we thank them very much.’

So far the group comprises Beavers (aged six to eight) and Cubs (aged eight to 10) but the organisers hope to have Scouts, aged 10-and-a-half years to 14, and Explorers, aged 14 years to 18.

Mr Thompson said through the summer the group had been involved in a range of activities, such as bushcraft skills, climbing, abseiling, cooking and much more.

’Last Saturday saw the children climbing on our brand new wall and enjoying indoor archery with our new kit,’ he said.

’Last month we laid a wreath on Remembrance Sunday at the National Service and we will be attending the Peacelight Service at Christmas. In the summer, we will join events such as St George’s Day parade, island camps and activities and maybe look at walking up some of our hills.’

The group meets on Mondays, 4.30pm to 6pm in All Saints Church Hall, Alexander Drive, Douglas. Contact Penny Collier, [email protected]