CHRISTMAS is not the only cause for celebration at this time of year, the Cubs are also marking their 100 year anniversary.

Members of the organisation were joined recently by Justin Tomlinson as they held a party in recognition of their impressive history.

The North Swindon MP helped to mark the occasion as he attended a party at Isambard School, as well as an event in Parliament held in the Speaker’s Apartment.

As they celebrated in prestigious surroundings, the Cubs put their Scouting skills to the test, transforming the sophisticated surrounds into a campsite setting.

Groups of Cubs pitched tents, taught and learnt vital first aid skills, and discovered how to stay safe online with a range of new and innovative digital apps.

The most recent events are just the icing on the cake at the end of an action packed year for the organisation and its members.

Groups across the country held ‘promise parties’ on December 16 where they renewed their promise at 7.16pm – 1916 on the 24 hour clock – commemorating the official registration date of the Cub Scout section.

‘Thanks events’ have also been held to show appreciation for the work of dedicated volunteers, without whom the busy Cub calendar would not be possible.

Swindon’s 14 different Scout groups and their Cub sections have been at the heart of these celebrations.

A significant source of fundraising for these groups comes from the annual Scouts’ Christmas post – this year the volunteers were able to use Justin Tomlinson’s new community office as a seasonal sorting office ahead of their North Swindon distribution.

Justin said: “I am very passionate about ensuring that young people are kept busy with different activities and extra-curricular endeavours.

“The scouts offer a range of activities for both boys and girls, whilst teaching valuable life skills.

“It is remarkable that the movement is celebrating its centenary this year and it is all down to the dedicated leaders who have volunteered their time over the past century to provide a great environment for kids.

“Here in Swindon we are lucky to have a number of groups who provide activities and who also contribute to local communities.

“I am very happy to have supported the Scouts’ post fundraiser and attended the promise party – what a year for our Cubs and Scouts.”

Adventure TV star Steve Backshall, who is an ambassador for the Cubs100 celebrations, added: “Scouting is the way forward, giving young people skills to succeed through adventure and achievement.

“I’m fiercely proud to be involved with this fantastic cause, and a movement that I believe can move mountains.

“I’ll be at a celebration and promise event at the Natural History Museum and volunteering my time to help Cub Scout learn new skills.

“As a volunteer, you get to see first-hand how scouting can change the lives of young people in your community.

“Volunteering with the Scouts can not only change the lives of young people for the better, it could change your life too.”