One of the area's oldest scout troops has been celebrating yet another birthday, more than a century after its formation.

The 1st Northfleet Scout Group officially opened its doors on Monday, March 1, 1909, at the Church House in Railway Street.

Now with nearly 30 members, the institution has weathered the test of time - evolving to match an environment that has rapidly changed since its formation.

Inspired by General Robert Baden-Powell's best-selling handbook, Scouting for Boys, a meeting was held in late February, 1909.

It was decided to form an organisation of scouts, founded by Mr Plews Howden, a lay minister of the Church House YMCA Mission.

Within a week, the number of boys enrolled leapt from 21 to 32, as the first official meeting was held.

By Monday, March 8, that year, 64 members had joined, organised into eight patrols.

The group's success led to the formation of the 3rd Northfleet Troop four months later, in June 1909.

New recruits flocked to take part in the activities offered by the movement, which included flag signalling, drilling, knot tying, rope splicing, learning first aid and cooking.

Early members were asked to be courteous to everyone, and do a good turn for somebody each day, something still relevant in 2019, with scouts a third more likely to support their communities.

Despite some opposition to the group, the boys eventually secured the coach-house adjoining the Church House in Railway Street, and converted it into a drill hall.

It was to become one of its many homes over the years, which have included an old cow shed in Five Ash Road, a disused stable in Station Street, nicknamed "The Den", former cinema and dance hall The Astoria in High Street, Northfleet, and the original Sturge School, also in the High Street.

The 1st Northfleet Scout Group survived both the First and Second World Wars, with those left at home doing their best to support the country.

From waste paper collection to building air raid shelters, members carried on as many of their scout officers were called away.

The troop has taken part in countless parades, gang shows - or theatrical performances - fundraising activities, county marathons and jamborees since its inception, and even had a visit from General Baden-Powell in April 1910.

With too many leaders, members and supporters to name, it's now led by David Norris, who is also county network commissioner, from Rosherville Scout Hall in Beresford Road.

The site was refurbished by the group in 2012, shortly before its lease at Dallen Hall expired, to ensure its long-term future.

A camping trip was held to commemorate the troop's 110th anniversary, with members praising the skills, confidence and friendships they have developed as scouts.