About our Scout Group

From it's early beginnings in 1921 to the present day the name The Diehards synonymous with the 8th St Marylebone has earned a reputation to be one of London's leading Scout Group offering quality Scouting to all ages.

Founded by Les Kirby the group first met on 1st October 1921 at Capland Street School. Within a few months the 8th were fully operational with all sections of the Scout movement meeting regularly. LJK acted quickly to get the Group established on a firm footing. He obtained written permission from the Colonel of the Middlesex Regiment to adopt their soubriquet The Diehards, created a unique identity with our black scarf and gold tip, started a regular magazine called The Diehard and formed all the relevant committees.

One of his greatest achievements was to form the Old Scout Branch whose members have been responsible for redeveloping this magnificent Headquarters and the re-birth of the 8th St Marylebone Scout Group.

Based in the heart of St John's Wood, in purpose built 'state of the art' premises, the group attracts new members from all over North West London including Westminster, Paddington, Hampstead and Kilburn. Such is the appeal of the Group that some adults travel in from outside London just to be part of The Diehards welcoming atmosphere and rich heritage. The 8th St Marylebone are registered at Scout HQ in the District of West London and in the County of 'Greater London Middlesex West' GLMW.

All sections are open to boys and girls, meeting weekly during term times and 'get out and about' on day events, camps and foreign trips. Scouting helps children and young adults to reach their full potential, developing skills which include leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, teamwork and playing a full part in a modern society with Skills For Life.

Scouting is a registered charity and relies entirely on volunteers creating a fun varied programme to allow our young people to develop into better citizens. Our team of adults comprise not only of section leaders but many behind the scenes roles to ensure the leadership have the backing to provide quality Scouting. Our volunteers also enjoy it's benefits by learning new skills, making new friends and enjoying a social life with a purpose.

The Diehards (The 8th St Marylebone Scout Group) has earned the enviable reputation of a well-run group with a proud history, if you would like to know more please delve deep into our history, topics are in the footer.

Traditions do not die hard, neither do our members. Joining our Group will give you an opportunity to experience modern day Scouting in the heart of London combined with pride from our ancestry.

Coming together is a beginning.Keeping together is a process.Thinking together is unity, but,working together is success.