SCOUTS in Barton have been celebrating the opening of their new headquarters after a battle to raise enough funds to build it spanning more than three decades.
The new headquarters is the new home for more than 200 Scouts and Guides and was built with a remit to create a building that enhances the natural features of the local environment.
Fundraising for a new building began as far back as 1980 with a planning committee to find a replacement home and identify the funds needed.
Initial cost estimates put the price at £300,000, but rising construction costs saw that figure rise to £750,000 by the time the HQ was built.
A service of dedication was led by Canon Graham Newton of the nearby parish church, who dedicated two new Scout flags and two time capsules.
Canon Newton said: “I became rector in 2004 and for the last seven years I have seen at first hand the incredible commitment of all those involved. It is an amazing achievement.”
Rainbow Guide leader Linda Perry led traditional Scouting celebrations around the camp fire.
Many of the adults present at the celebrations were cubs and brownies when the plans for a new headquarters were first devised.