THE 1st Great Parndon Scout Group has won a reprieve and is set to re-open in January.

As readers will know, the Scout Association decided to disband the First Avenue-based group due to a number of concerns.

The news came as a shock to staff, scouts and families, many of whom had been involved for decades.

But now, at Christmas time, there has been a change of heart by the Scout Association, who have reversed the decision but with a number of reservations.

In a letter seen by YH they have agreed to re-open the Group in January but they have placed the Group in “special measures” and will advise them on a number of concerns, especially, health and safety.

“In a spirit of understanding….we have agreed to re-instate all volunteers of the Scout Group..to work with the District Team as part of the review process.