It is with much regret that we write to advise you that the Christmas Scout Post 2023 will not take place this year; or, indeed, in the future. 

After 35 years – side from one lost to Covid in 2020 - the scheme originated by John ‘Scutty’ Scutt, Ken White and Ray Aplin has provided messages of festive joy in all weathers, be they snow storms or torrential downpours – the cards were still delivered!

Over this time, monies have been raised both for local charities and scouting, enabling young people of all ages, the opportunity to take part in events and activities; and, gain life-long skills. For this, we are extremely grateful.

In recent years the scheme has seen a steady decline in the number of cards posted and therefore a huge reduction in the monies raised, in a time when everyone is under financial pressures of ever-increasing costs. We too have the very same issues!

We now have three sub-Post Offices in the villages, struggling to find volunteers in order to support the scheme; and, where we no longer have posties, we constantly receive cards for ‘Out of Area’. We have always honoured the delivering of these cards with a paid stamp, but the sheer volume and Royal Mail costs means that we can no longer afford to do this.

The scheme not only has sorting offices in Dorchester and Bridport, but these are replicated in the villages of Puddletown, Crossways, Martinstown, Charminster, Broadmayne.

The entire scheme is run by an outstanding group of adult volunteers, estimated to be in the region of 300. Over the years, they have walked; collected; stamped; sorted; and, delivered thousands of good wishes.

We will be forever thankful to the hundreds of volunteers who have kindly given us their time; to the businesses who sponsored our flyers in the past; to the stores who hosted our yellow boxes; and, to the public for their endearing and loyal support.

May we wish you and yours the happiest of Christmases for the many years to come!

19th October 2023