1926–1939: The Early Years of Areley Kings Scouting

Areley Kings Scout Group was formed on 3 October 1926, at a time when the Scout Movement was becoming firmly established across Britain. Less than twenty years after its founding, Scouting was increasingly seen as a positive force for young people, offering adventure, discipline, practical skills and a strong sense of community responsibility. 

 Early records suggest that the Troop began with a relatively small number of Scouts, supported by local volunteers and closely linked to village and church life. Leadership in these formative years included Mr Lloyd of Areley Hall, recorded as an early Scoutmaster, alongside Egbert J. Coley, who soon became a regular and active figure in the Group’s day-to-day organisation. 

 Parish Magazine entries from the late 1920s and early 1930s provide valuable insight into how Scouting functioned at village level. Fundraising was essential, and events such as Whist Drives were organised to support Cubs and Scouts. These were well-attended community occasions, with local residents contributing prizes, refreshments and donations. Such events not only funded Scouting activities but also reinforced strong ties between the Group and the wider village 

By 1929, a Cub Pack had been formed, initially consisting of nine boys. Handwritten records from this period describe early Scouting activities that would still be recognisable today: tent pitching, fire lighting, outdoor games and camping skills. Meetings for both Scouts and Cubs were recorded as taking place at Astley Town, reflecting the flexible and informal arrangements typical of early Scouting. 

  One of the earliest recorded camps took place in 1933, when a small group of Areley Kings Scouts attended a nine-day camp at Newport. This marked an important milestone for the Group, demonstrating that even in its early years it embraced extended camping and wider Scouting opportunities beyond the village.