1st Cuddington (Warspite)

1st Cuddington (Warspite) Sea Scout Group is a long-established Sea Scout group in Epsom & Ewell. It operates for young people aged 5¾ to 18, combining traditional Scouting with a strong emphasis on nautical skills and water-based activities.

The group holds Royal Navy Recognition (Group No. 95), placing it among a select number of Sea Scout groups in the UK recognised for standards both on and off the water. It is also a RYA Recognised Training Centre, able to offer recognised qualifications in rowing and paddlesport. 

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Historical Origins & Development

Warspite was founded on 24 January 1931, initiated by Francis Lamb (later Surgeon Captain Lamb R.N.), son of the vicar of St Mary’s, Cuddington. From its first meeting the group demonstrated a maritime focus: its earliest programme included sailing a small dinghy The Tern on the Hogsmill River, followed by the purchase of a 27-foot gig later that year. 

The group grew rapidly in the 1930s, establishing its Wolf Cub Pack in 1936 and participating in camps and skills competitions. During World War II, despite leadership being called away to military service and local air raids, the Scouts continued operations and contributed to the war effort by collecting materials and constructing air-raid shelters under the direction of Scouter Frank Foster. 

In 1943 Warspite entered the Admiralty recognition scheme, initially combined with another Sea Scout troop to meet inspection requirements. By 1953 it achieved independent Royal Navy Recognition as Unit RN95, reflecting its strength in seamanship and programme delivery. 

Headquarters & Facilities

In the early 1950s the group secured land on Cunliffe Road and built its own headquarters, with the roof raised by Rover Crew members applying their seafaring skills; the HQ was formally opened in 1960 by founder Francis Lamb. A two-storey extension was added in 1970. 

The group’s water base evolved over time: originally mooring boats on the Hogsmill and at Surbiton Water Works, it moved in 1979 to the Warspite & Ajax Water Activity Centre at Thames Ditton, greatly expanding its capacity for rowing, sailing, canoeing and motorboat activities.