THE FIRST Ledbury Cub Scout Group is in need of a new leader, now "Baloo" has decided to step down from the position, after thirteen years in charge of the pack.

In fact, the need for new leaders for the group is now seen as "an ongoing problem", and an appeal has gone out to the local community to help remedy the situation.

Carol Merryman, also known as Baloo, after the bear character in Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book", has been a very popular member of the team for 13 years. "as an integral part of 1st Ledbury Scout Group".

Paul Bennett, the 1st Ledbury Group Scout Leader said: "To acknowledge the countless hours and huge commitment Carol has given over the years to the young boy and girl Cub Scouts of Ledbury she was presented with an engraved vase at the recent Group annual general meeting at the Warren Oak Campsite."

The vase, which was presented by Mr Bennett is inscribed and reads: "Thank you, Baloo, from the 1st Ledbury Cubs, past and present."

Mr Bennett said: "Although Carol is stepping back as a leader she has offered to remain on the Group Executive Committee which is made up of non-uniformed volunteers who support the leaders, fundraising and the general administration of the Group and Scout Hut near the railway station in the Homend.

"The 1st Ledbury Scout Group, part of the Malvern Hills Scout District, will continue to benefit from Carol’s support and experience. This said, the need for new leaders is ongoing. Especially now that Cubs no longer have their Baloo."

Mrs Merryman is a very well-known and popular member of the local community, outside the cub movement, as she is also the student and family support manager at Ledbury Primary.

Anyone interested in becoming a cub scout leader, with no immediate obligation, should contact Paul Bennett at paul.bennett@ledburyscoutgroup.org.uk