THE thriving Cub pack in Urchfont is in danger of closing because it has no leaders.

Leader Peter Winkley has been forced to give up due to pressure of work and former leader Mary Oliver, who lives in Urchfont, is appealing for interested people to come forward.

The group, which has 22 members, plus another seven who want to join, was due to restart in September after the summer break but is unlikely to do so.

Mrs Oliver, who was group leader of the Cub and Scout group in Urchfont for 32 years until she retired in March, said: "We obviously don't want to shut the Cub group. It has been in existence since 1959 and it would be tragic if it were to close.

"We would like to see it re-open in the next month. The boys themselves are so keen and there is nothing else in the village for them to do.

"Scouting helps young men in their future life. They learn different skills and they grow up to be self-assured."

Mrs Oliver said the group needs a leader and assistant leader.

Meetings are at Urchfont Village Hall on Thursdays from 6pm to 7.20pm.

Cub leaders have to be aged over 20 while the minimum age for assistant leaders is 18.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Mrs Oliver on (01380) 840332.

The Urchfont Scout troop, which has 35 members, is unaffected and will resume its meetings in September.