Scouts are off to Poland

Scouts from across Paisley are heading to Poland this summer for two weeks of fun, friendship and adventure.

The 70 young men and women from Paisley and District Scouts are taking part in the first in a series of cultural exchange camps promoting Bydgoszcz, in Poland, as well as Paisley and Barrhead.

The group will camp alongside Polish Scouts and plans to visit the seaside resort of Gdankz, the forests in Bydgoszcz and the beautiful city of Krakow.

They will also visit the world- famous Salt Mine in Krakow, as well as the Auschwitz concentration camp.

Both Polish and Scottish Scouts will visit the NATO base in Bydgoszcz — a trip which has been arranged by former Renfrewshire Scout Lt Cdr (OF-3) William Inglis from the NATO Force Integration Unit.

Explorer Scout, Monica McFarlane, 15, said: “I am really looking forward to this trip as it will allow me to learn about the history and culture of Poland.

“This expedition will also help me to gain new friendships with young people from the Polish scouting movement.”

Expedition leader and district commissioner Rob Murray added: “This expedition is a once- in- alifetime experience where we will be visiting historical sites, camping, trying out adventurous activities and much more.

“I am very proud of the year- long preparation our volunteers have done to ensure this trip is successful and I thank them for all their time.

“The young people have had a busy year preparing for this expedition and I know excitement levels are increasing the closer we get.

“I am looking forward to catch up with our Polish hosts and that we have a safe and successful expedition.

“This expedition will give us the opportunity to sell Paisley and Barrhead and I have been delighted to have been working with the Paisley 2021 bid team in ensuring we make the most out of this opportunity.”