Our History
A Legacy of Maritime Excellence
From 1909 to today—over a century of Scouting heritage combined with Neptune's modern maritime adventure
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 unit was the brainchild of two passionate scouting 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 impact on the scouting community.
Our Journey Through Time
1st Reading Scout Group Founded
One of Berkshire's oldest Scout Groups begins serving the community.
Royal Navy Affiliation
RN 83 affiliation established, cementing the maritime tradition.
Neptune Explorer Scout Unit Launches
Michael 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
The 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' colors.
New Leadership & Adaptation
Jake 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
At the end of 2022, Louise Tott makes the difficult decision to step down from her leadership role. Her unwavering commitment and dedication had left an indelible mark on Neptune's history, shaping the unit during its formative years and through the challenges of the pandemic.
Fresh Perspectives Arrive
Neptune gains two passionate new leaders: Finn Harris, an ex-Neptune Explorer returning to give back to the unit that shaped him, and Sam Evans, who had been affiliated with the group for several years. Conrad also joins the team after taking time away from the movement, bringing fresh perspectives, new ideas, and keen skills that enrich the leadership team.
Expanding Horizons
Riley, an ex-explorer, returns as a leader bringing energy and experience. Neptune takes a bold step in expanding camping ambitions by attending the unit's first-ever Scouting music festival—Gladstonbury—creating unforgettable memories. Later in the year, Sam Evans steps down after dedicated service to the unit. The Neptunion family continues to evolve.
Record Growth & Alpine Heights
Neptune experiences its largest growth of Explorers from the partnered 1st Reading Scout Group, testament to the unit's reputation and appeal. Michael Shellard leads an ambitious district-wide contingent of Explorers to the prestigious Jamboree in the Alps—a pinnacle Scouting experience. Becky, another ex-explorer, joins the leadership team, continuing Neptune's tradition of returning alumni giving back.
New Wave of Maritime Excellence
Neptune bids a grateful farewell to Riley, celebrating his contributions. The unit welcomes Alex and Evelyn—both ex-explorers with extensive watersport backgrounds and maritime expertise. Their youthful energy, combined with deep knowledge of water activities, represents exactly the fresh blood Neptune needs to continue its maritime legacy into the future.
The Neptune Name
From its early days, the young explorers made significant decisions that would define the unit's identity. They chose the name "Neptune" as a respectful tribute to the old 1st Reading explorer unit, which was known as "Trident." This choice symbolized the unit's desire to honor its roots while forging a new path forward.
Colors that Bind
Neptune's neckerchief colors were carefully selected to pay homage to the naval connection, mirroring the colors worn by enlisted sailors in the Royal Navy. The unit adopted Black and Gold as its branding colors, representing the Navy Rank sleeves—a symbol of pride and discipline that inspires Neptune's scouts.
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 their 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.