A BURNLEY Scout group has called on former members to ‘be prepared’ for a reunion as it celebrates its 100th birthday.

St Matthew with Holy Trinity Scout Group will host a special service next Friday to mark its centenary.

Current leader Howard Mitchell said he wanted members and volunteers past and present to mark the occasion.

The event, to be held at St Matthew’s Church, in St Matthew’s Street, will also commemorate 90 years of Guides in the parish.

Father Mark Williams has already unveiled a commemorative plaque at the landscaped paving outside the Church Hall as part of the celebrations.

Mr Mitchell said: “Countless young people have enjoyed the experience of Scouting at St Matthew with Holy Trinity over the last 100 years, but we must recognise the enthusiasm and dedication of all the adult volunteers who have been leaders at some time in the past and those who are our current leaders.

“Without their commitment, our young people would not have benefited from the fun and friendship, the challenge and adventure that Scouting has to offer.

“We hope to welcome as many former members as possible to our Centenary Celebration and it will be helpful if they contact us at www.smwhtsg.co.uk.”

The group’s 80 members - 65 children and 15 adults - have been holding event throughout the year to raise funds for the celebrations.

Mr Mitchell said: “We just had a group camp a couple of weeks ago over at BIspham Hall, near Wigan, which was well-attended, and we helped clear the new paving area outside the church as part of a community project.

“We also had a sponsored hike which saw the Beavers walk from the Bull and Butcher to Clowbridge reservoir, the Scouts go to Hambleton Hill and back, and the Scouts walk all the way over to Deerplay.

“There’s a great deal of pride in the group and the church that we’ve turned 100.”

The Thanksgiving Service will take place at 7pm on October 10.