Major Developer Donates £1,000 to Cornish Scouts – What Will They Use It For?

A local scouts’ group in Bodmin has received a £1,000 boost from one of Cornwall’s largest housing developers.

Supporting Young People in Bodmin

Persimmon Homes presented the cheque to 3rd Bodmin Scouts Group after the group applied for funding through the developer’s Community Champions scheme. Local councillors Leigh Frost and Pat Rogerson attended the presentation at the scout hut.

The group, which has been running since 1912, supports over 100 children aged four to 14. The funds will be used to buy new sports equipment, allowing young people in the area to enjoy a wider range of activities.

David Illsley, Group Lead Volunteer at 3rd Bodmin Scouts Group, expressed his appreciation for the donation, saying:

“We are really grateful to Persimmon for their generous donation. The children love playing sports as part of their scouting activity, and this funding will help us buy some equipment to expand that offering.

“With budget constraints and ongoing fundraising needs, Persimmon’s support is incredibly valuable, and we will ensure the funds are used effectively to benefit all our members and promote healthy, happy experiences for young people in Bodmin.”

Persimmon’s Community Investment

Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme donates £700,000 annually to charities and organisations across Britain. Recent recipients in Cornwall include Home Start Kernow, Cornwall Air Ambulance, and Bodmin Town Band.

Jane Cartwright, Sales Director for Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon, said:

“We are thrilled to support the 3rd Bodmin Scout Group through our Community Champions programme.

“We have been an active developer in Bodmin in recent years and we want to demonstrate our commitment to leaving a positive and lasting legacy by helping fund this local community group, even when we are no longer building in the area.

“On behalf of Persimmon, I’d like to wish the Scouts and their leaders continued success in all their activities and future plans supporting many young people in the local area.”

Local Councillors Praise the Donation

Councillor Leigh Frost, who represents Bodmin St Petroc, welcomed the donation and its impact on the community:

“A big thank you must go to Persimmon for the support they have given the local scout groups. It’s nice to see a developer engage with the wider community outside of house building.

“As a former member of 3rd Bodmin Scouts growing up, I recognise the commitment and value they bring to Bodmin, so this is a donation worth celebrating.”

Councillor Pat Rogerson, representing Bodmin St Mary’s & St Leonard, added:

“Sport is so important for our young people – not only is it great for physical and mental health but it teaches values like teamwork and self-responsibility – so it is wonderful to see Persimmon help out the scouts in town to deliver more sporting activities.”

A Lasting Impact

Persimmon Homes has developments across Cornwall and West Devon, with sites in Liskeard, Truro, Falmouth, Helston, and beyond. The donation to 3rd Bodmin Scouts Group ensures that even as construction moves on, the company’s presence in Bodmin will leave a lasting positive impact on the community.