The FG Deans Memorial Hall, by Threave Rovers Football Club ground, has undergone refurbishment and is now ready for bookings, with facilities that would suit a whole range of user groups.
FG Deans Memorial Hall was built thanks to money gifted by F.G. Deans, founder of the Castle Douglas troop boy scouts in 1920. The Hall has been a recognised base for the scout groups and this is where the Beavers, Brownies, Cubs, Scouts and Guides meet on a weekly basis during term-time. There is also now a Jujitsu class running twice a week. Many people from Castle Douglas and the surrounding area would have used the Hall during their scouting journey and now their children or even grandchildren are able to enjoy it too.
Storm Ophelia blew the roof off the Hall in October 2017, but a huge fundraising drive saw the building repaired. Thanks to The National Heritage Lottery Fund, the Galloway Glens Scheme was able to support the work through the ‘Our Heritage’ Small Grant Scheme, with new doors improving building security and energy efficiency. The building is now safeguarded for the future generations of Scouts and Guides.
Nowadays, the Hall is used most evenings, but is also available for hire by local community or interest groups. Increased used of this great facility would help with the running costs, which are substantial, and ensure the Hall survives as a community hub. If you are interested in renting the Hall, please contact Allison Tyson on [email protected].
The Scouts desperately require more adults to get involved to support the work of the Committee and the Leaders who try their best for the group to survive. Your local Scouts need you! You don’t have to be a parent, as long as you are 17 years old or older and willing to give up a little bit of your time, you can be a part of a wonderful tradition. To find out more information, contact Allison Tyson on [email protected]
Allison Tyson, from the Castle Douglas Scout Group and advisor to the FG Deans Management Committee, said:
“We are very grateful for the support we have received from the Galloway Glens which has helped to maintain the hall and we look forward to continuing to support the community by providing a safe space for a variety of exciting and interesting opportunities”.
Anna Harvey, Galloway Glens Administrator, oversees ‘Our Heritage’ Small Grants Scheme and added:
“I am delighted that thanks to funding from The National Heritage Lottery Fund, we were able to help in preserving the fabric of the building and safeguarding it for the future generations of local Scouts.”
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