The history of the 7th/8th Cambridgeshire (F.S.E) Marine Scouts Rover Crew begins in 1990. It all began when a few of the older boys in the scout group, myself included, became too old to be scouts any longer. But, unwilling to leave the movement, yet too young to become leaders, it was decided that they should revive the old venture unit. With eight founding members, all taken from within the group, and 68p in the funds, the adventure began. We were led in those days, and in fact until quite recently, by a man who whenever asked would claim to know nothing about scouting. Derek Browning had originally planned to lead this bunch of no-hopers for only a few months, until a 'proper' leader could be found. He retired from the crew last year. Let this be a warning to the current Rover Scout Master Tom Quilligan!
Many changes have been seen over the past nine years. Splitting from the S.A in 1994/95, and finding new headquarters at our large Fendrayton site is a key point in our history. This was the time at which the foundation for our very strong and well represented Rover Crew was laid. Membership has changed, and over the nine years we have had nearly sixty members, with crew sizes averaging fifteen regular attendees.
We have taken part in many activities like canoeing, hiking, sailing, power boating, gliding (to quote just a few), and we have had many adventures as a group of young people including a trip to Slovenia in 1998. One thing has remained constant throughout this time, and that is the Rovers support for other sections within the group, and for each other. The formation of the crew was a progression enabling the older scouts to continue to enjoy scouting, and to have the opportunity for more adventurous activities. It also ensures that the discipline, experience and training qualifications that these young adults achieve in their various activities will still be available for passing on to the younger scouts in the group. In this way the Rover Crew is self perpetuating, and at 16 these young scouts will be able to impart their knowledge and skills.
Rover scouting is fun.
Mark Browning.
Assistant Rover Scout Master.