Cubs go down to woods to learn skills for survival
Cub Scouts from Hamilton and Uddingston spent a weekend learning how to survive in the wild Bear Grylls-style at Craigs Campsite in Torphichen recently.
More than 30 older Cubs, aged 10 and 11, from Strathcalder District, who will soon be moving up to the Scouts, learned some essential skills which will help them “survive” in the outdoors in Scotland.
The Cubs undertook a series of challenges including building shelters in the wild, pioneering, tracking, fire lighting and first aid.
They enjoyed cooking food over an open fire and built and tested a Da Vinci bridge.
And they spent two very cold nights sleeping in tents.
Not only did the Cubs learn all these new skills, they also made new friends and gained in confidence and independence.
Twelve adult leaders gave up their free time to plan and run the activities for the weekend but ended up having as much fun as the youngsters.
John Mcaree , Cub Leader from Uddingston, said: “It was a brilliant send-off to all the cubs who are moving up to Scouts soon and all the new adventures they’ll have.
“I will definitely want to take part in the next camp”.
Craig Mcintyre, one of the Cub leaders, said: “I absolutely loved it and the Cubs had a fantastic time.”
Six young leaders, aged from 14 to 17, also gave up their weekend to go along and help with running the activities and looking after the campsite.
Alison Irvine, assistant district commissioner for Cubs in Strathcalder District, said: “We had a great weekend, the Cubs were a real credit to their Scout Groups and parents and took part in all the challenges with enthusiasm. It was really heartening to see so many young people who were willing to give up their time to help as well, putting something back in to the community and helping us provide opportunities for the younger members. “Scouting in Strathcalder seeks to transform the lives of young people by providing an inspiring programme of everyday fun and adventure. “Scouting is shaped by young people in partnership with adults and we are always looking for new volunteers and if you fancy getting involved then why not join the adventure at www.scouts.org. uk/join.” Bear Grylls, a British adventurer, writer and television presenter, who is involved in a number of wilderness survival series in the UK and US, was appointed the youngest-ever Chief Scout in the UK at age 35.
The Cubs were a real credit to their Scout groups and parents