Renovation work on a Scout hut at the centre of the village community for more than 20 years has been completed.

The headquarters of the 2nd Great Wakering group, near Oxenham Farm, in New Road, has undergone a refurbishment programme over the past year.

Now, the hut, home to groups of Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Sea Scouts and Explorers, has been reopened by the man who originally campaigned to have the hut built - former Scout leader John Mead.

More than 30 Beavers, Scouts and Sea Scouts took part in a number of waterborne activities to celebrate the reopening.

Proceedings were watched over by Rochford and Southend East MP Sir Teddy Taylor.

The group press secretary Barbara Wood said: "It was quite a big occasion because of the work which has gone on for the young people of Great Wakering.

"The Scout hut has done a lot for young people and we are very lucky to have a Sea Scout group which can make use of the beautiful coastline around here."

Published Monday, June 16, 2003

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