Established 1909
1st Reading Scout GroupOur History Since 1909
A Legacy of Maritime Excellence
Over a century of Scouting heritage, combined with Neptune's modern maritime adventure on the River Thames.
The Neptune Story
In January 2018, a new chapter in scouting began with the formation of the Neptune Explorer Scout Unit — a collaboration between Reading Central District and 1st Reading Sea Scouts, the brainchild of two passionate veterans, Michael Shellard and Jake Willet.
Both had been involved in scouting from a young age and had been part of 1st Reading Sea Scouts themselves. With a modest start of just seven members, Neptune set sail on a journey that would shape the lives of its members and leave a lasting mark on the scouting community.
Milestone by milestone
Our Journey Through Time
1st Reading Scout Group Founded
1909One of Berkshire's oldest Scout Groups begins its proud service to the community — a legacy that has never wavered.
Royal Navy Affiliation — RN 83
1935RN 83 affiliation established, cementing the maritime tradition that defines everything Neptune stands for.
Neptune Explorer Scout Unit Launches
2018Michael Shellard and Jake Willet found Neptune through collaboration between Reading Central District and 1st Reading Sea Scouts. Starting with just 7 members, a new chapter begins.
Choosing Neptune
2018The unit adopts the name "Neptune" as tribute to the old 1st Reading explorer unit "Trident." Black and Gold branding reflects Royal Navy rank sleeves, while the neckerchief mirrors enlisted sailors' colours.
New Leadership & Adaptation
2020Jake Willet steps away after two years of dedicated service. Louise Tott and Alex Kent join as passionate leaders. Despite the pandemic, Neptune thrives through online scouting and virtual meetings.
Leadership Transition
2022Louise Tott makes the difficult decision to step down, leaving an indelible mark on Neptune's history and shaping the unit through its formative years and the pandemic.
Fresh Perspectives Arrive
2023Finn Harris, an ex-Neptune Explorer, returns to give back. Sam Evans joins after years of affiliation. Conrad rejoins with fresh perspectives and keen skills, enriching the leadership team.
Expanding Horizons
2024Riley, an ex-explorer, returns as leader. Neptune attends its first-ever Scouting music festival — Gladstonbury. Sam Evans steps down after dedicated service to the unit.
Record Growth & Alpine Heights
2025Neptune's largest-ever intake from the partnered 1st Reading Scout Group. Michael Shellard leads an ambitious district-wide contingent to the prestigious Jamboree in the Alps. Becky joins the leadership team.
New Wave of Maritime Excellence
2026The unit welcomes Alex and Evelyn — both ex-explorers with extensive watersports backgrounds. Their expertise represents exactly the fresh energy Neptune needs to carry its maritime legacy forward.
Identity
What Makes Neptune, Neptune
The Neptune Name
The name “Neptune” was chosen as a respectful tribute to the old 1st Reading explorer unit, “Trident.” It symbolises the unit's desire to honour its roots while forging a new path forward.
Black & Gold
Neptune's neckerchief colours pay homage to the naval connection, mirroring the colours worn by enlisted Royal Navy sailors. Black and Gold — representing Navy rank sleeves — is a symbol of pride and discipline.
The Neptunion Family
Over the years, Neptune has welcomed numerous members into its ranks, and though some have moved on, they all remain part of the tight-knit Neptunion family. As Neptune Explorer Scout Unit continues to sail through the waves of scouting, the spirit of adventure and the legacy of tradition will forever guide its course.
Together, we navigate uncharted waters — leaving a lasting mark on the world and cherishing the bonds that make Neptune a beacon of friendship and growth.
Curious what that adventure looks like today? Explore our modern activities programme — from sailing on the Thames to DofE expeditions across Berkshire. Ready to join us? Find out how to get involved.