EXACTLY 25 years after their new headquarters were unveiled, Malvern Link Scout Troop's numbers have dwindled dramatically, and an appeal has been launched to recruit adult helpers.

At the time of the opening of the £12,000 Rodway Hall, named after celebrated group scout leader Skip Rodway, 120 boys were there to celebrate the occasion.

But now there are only 40 boys who attend the Scout group, and none of them are Scouts - because no leaders can be found to help them realise the next step from Cubs and Beavers.

"It's a shame, but if our kids want to go on to become Scouts, they have to go elsewhere," said Geraldine Shaw, chairman of the First Malvern Link Scout Troop.

"Also, the building is in constant need of maintenance. One of the members of our executive committee, Dave Collins, has gone above and beyond the call of duty in doing some excellent work around the hall.

"We are hoping to apply for a National Lottery grant to buy some new equipment and help with costs."

She attributes the loss of members to the fact that there are many more distractions for young boys today.

"When I joined the troop with my son, Peter, in 1970, there were fewer things for young boys to do, like computer games and football," she said.

"Also, if children wanted to do things like Duke of Edinburgh awards, Scouts was the only place they could do them. Nowadays, school offers that sort of thing."

She added that the troop would welcome new members, but new adult helpers, who would receive training from the district Scout Association, would enable them to re-introduce Scouts and expand their capacity.

More information is available from group scout leader Sandra Starkey on (01886) 832 064.