According to the latest census figures, which have just been released, the number of young people taking part in scouting in the Alderley district has risen yet again.
Today's figures show there has been an increase of 4.8% from 2010, bringing the total membership for the Alderley district - which covers Alderley Edge, Handforth, Wilmslow, Lindow, Chelford, Goostrey, and Holmes Chapel – up to a 922 members.
District Commissioner Stephen Buckley said "This is a fantastic achievement and reflects the growing popularity of scouting nationally."
Nationally the number of members has risen 3.2% to 525,327 members.
Stephen Buckley added "Our appeal is based on offering adventurous activity to young people and allowing them to grow and learn while having fun at the same time."
In 2011 Alderley district grew by 42 members, with all of these being new young members in beavers, cubs, scouts and explorers.
"While celebrating the increase in overall numbers we should note that we didn't record an increase in adult leaders to our total, and with more we could do even more activities," said Stephen.
County Commissioner Graham Phillips commented: "It has been another year of growth for scouting in Cheshire and I'm delighted with the contribution that Alderley district has made."
The Scout Association believes that the reasons for growth across the country are twofold.
Firstly, scouting provides an enormous range of adventures for young people, allowing them to experience the great outdoors. In the UK members can enjoy more than 200 activities including zorbing, water skiing, abseiling and adventure glider flights.
Secondly, scouting offers an environment for young people to achieve their full potential as individuals and responsible citizens. When joining up, all scouts promise to do their best and help other people. These principles are reflected in the range of community work that scout groups undertake week in-week out.
Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: "It is so great to see scout numbers rising in Alderley. More and more young people are realising that Scouting offers them so much - whether it's the opportunity to go on a big international adventure or the chance to learn and hone vital life skills."
