Three new benches for Haddenham
The Haddenham Scout and Guide Association has officially presented a gift of new benches for the benefit of the village community.
A crowd of over 50 people including boys and girls in uniform from the Haddenham units in addition to many of their leaders and parents met on the Haddenham Airfield on Sunday 22nd February to celebrate the unveiling of one of the new benches. The date of 22nd February was chosen as it’s the joint birthday of Lord and Lady Baden Powell, the founders of the Scouting and Guiding movement. This day is celebrated globally by millions of Scouts and Guides worldwide as “Founders Day” or “World Thinking Day” to focus on international friendship, global issues and the impact they make together.
Last August, the Haddenham Scout and Guide Association appealed for help to replace the bench on the Airfield in July 2023 after the it had been sadly vandalised. This bench had been funded by money raised at a Gang Show organised by Richard Lay and young members of the village scouting and guiding units.
The original goal was to buy one replacement bench, but following the generosity of local residents and organisations plus fundraising efforts of the uniformed groups, the appeal raised more than double the target amount.
The Association commissioned not just one, but three sturdy bespoke benches from Wendover based charity, Lindengate. This is a local mental health charity that uses gardening and conservation to help people of all ages with their health & wellbeing.
Two of the new benches are located on Haddenham Airfield and the third will be installed on the Woodways Recreation Ground. In addition to the three new benches, the vandalised bench has been restored and is now located next to the Scout and Guide Centre.
After a winter of dismal wet weather, potholes and discussions about so many new homes being built in Haddenham, it’s wonderful to be able to share some positive news for the benefit of all. Thank you to everyone who made this possible.
Francesca Flaxton and Richard Kendall
On behalf of Haddenham Scout and Guide Association
February 2026
