A SPECIAL celebration to mark 100 years of the cubs took place at the National Trust’s Heelis building on Friday.

Cubs from all across Swindon came together to play games, eat party food and make new friends as the centenary was observed in classic scouting fashion.

Richard Bennet, deputy district commissioner for Swindon Ridgeway, said: “Friday was a celebration and a wonderful opportunity for the cubs to renew their promises.

“It was celebrated all across the country and it’s great to have been a part of it.”

The youngsters enjoyed playing such classic games as Twister, bingo, snakes and ladders and battleships.

Eight cub packs from all over the town took part and many came away with brand new friendships having been forged.

“The cubs had a fantastic time,” said Richard. “It was really nice for them to get together with friends outside of school, especially this close to Christmas.

“The National Trust very kindly let us use the Heelis centre for the evening and it made for a lovely setting.”

The cubs are enjoying huge popularity in Swindon at the moment and Richard is keen to welcome more new faces in the New Year.

He said: “We have very high numbers of people wanting to join, which is very exciting as we go into 2017.

“The recent publicity surrounding our 100 year anniversary really helped us and made people more aware of the various activities we do.

“The cubs will often go on camping trips for a few days and take part in a wide range of exercises. Young people always enjoy things like that. It’s good to give them the chance to spend a few nights away from home and cook their own meals.”

Parents interested in enrolling their children at one of Swindon’s many cub groups can call Richard directly on 01793 295215.