ENNIS Scouts are looking forward to celebrating on the double this weekend.

September marks the 90th year of Scouting in Ennis and the 1st and 4th Clare Group are looking forward to catching up with former and current members at the official opening of their new Scout Hall on Station Road this Saturday.

The new state-of-the-art Scout Hall is the result of a massive community effort and fundraising campaign. The Scout Hall will be officially opened on Saturday by Chief Scout Jill Pitcher Farrell who is the youngest and first female Chief Scout.

The Ennis Scouts group was founded in 1932 and the very first meetings were held in a room above Griffin’s shop in the Square.

“We have had various homes throughout the years including the building where Madden’s furniture shop is now, the old cinema and in the early 1960s we moved to our two present location which was built as a temporary hall until a suitable hall could be found. The big hall was added in the 70s. Building of the new Scout Hall started in March 2020 and was completed in Summer 2021,” outlines Fiona Staunton of Ennis Scouts.

On the day of the opening, supporters who got involved in the ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign to fundraise for the new hall will be able to see their brick on display on a special fundraising wall.

“The new building gives the opportunity to expand and continue to provide a wide-ranging programme of activities to young people from 6 years to 18 years. Building on connection with the wider community the hall is available for use by other community groups.

“Thanks to all who have been part of last 90 years and all who supported the new Hall project which ensures the future of Scouts in Ennis for another 90 years,” concludes Fiona.