An exciting new Scout group is opening in Bolton today.

The launch is taking place at St George Martyr Church on Roseberry Street in Daubhill at 10.30am.

Greater Manchester High Sheriff Diane Hawkins is set to open the event, alongside a commissioner from the Scouts Association.

District Commissioner for Bolton South, Rob Pimblett, said: “The new group is going to be amazing for the area. Everyone has been locked at home, so it feels great to help young people get outside again and learn new skills.

“They will also have the opportunity to forge new friendships and meet new people not just from Bolton, but from all over Greater Manchester.

“This new group will help young people develop the confidence to communicate with others. Everyone is excited for the new group to open and we expect to see quite a few people at the opening event.”

Bolton Paralympic star Ayaz Bhuta is also set to give a motivational speech at the event. Ayaz won a gold medal for Team GB in Wheelchair Rugby at Tokyo’s paralympic games.

Before the ceremony, he said: “It’s great to be speaking to the local scout club today, sharing my story of resilience. It’s important to motivate our young children to achieve their dreams and make them believe nothing is impossible.”

During the event, young people will be invited to participate in the Scout promise, which will kick off the investiture ceremony.

Adults will also become leaders of the group during the ceremony and will be presented with new neckers and badges to wear.

The opening event comes after leaders held a taster day with the new Scout group over the summer months.

The taster day saw the aspiring Scouts toast marshmallows over a fire, enjoy a pony ride and have a go at archery.

The District Commissioner already oversees 13 Scout Groups and is excited to welcome newcomers to the group in Daubhill.

The current groups are scattered across Westhoughton, Lostock, Farnworth, Kearsley, Great Lever to Little Lever and Stoneclough.

Rob was presented with the Award for Merit in 2019.