4th Hendon

The 4th Hendon is not mentioned in the 1957 Hendon Local Association booklet that marked 50 years of Scouting, because there was no Group in existence at that time designated as such. Because Groups were usually numbered consecutively it is fair to say that such a Group probably did exist at one time but closed prior to 1957.

It is however known that a new 4th Hendon Group was opened in the early 1960s and that it was listed in the District Directory dated June 1965. The Group, for Jewish boys, met at The Hendon Synagogue, Raleigh Close, Hendon NW4 and wore a blue scarf with a white border. The GSM was E Don Alvarez, the SSL was Malcolm Ginsberg and the CM was Mrs D Miller.

From the Greater London North – County Leaflet, dated December 1966, we are able to  report that both Don Alvarez and S Nyman, a P/L (S) with the 4th, received awards for their actions in coming to the aid of a Scouter who was drowning.

Don received the Gilt Cross for Gallantry with his citation reading ‘In recognition of his gallantry is rescuing a Scouter who was drowning in a swimming pool. Don brought him to the surface and applied artificial respiration until he regained consciousness, Münsingen, Switzerland, 10th August 1966.’

S Nyman received the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Meritorious Conduct, with his citation reading ‘In recognition of his courage, prompt action and presence of mind in going to the aid of a Scouter who had become unconscious in a swimming pool. Münsingen, Switzerland, 10th August 1966.’

It is also known that in 1975 the 19th Finchley, the Jewish Group in Finchley, Friern Barnet and Golders Green District closed. The leaders and boys all transferred to the 4th Hendon.

However, during 1988 the Group, as a whole, transferred to Finchley, Friern Barnet and Golders Green and restarted the 19th Finchley. The 4th Hendon ceased to exist.