Argyllshire Advertiser

Lochgilphe­ad Scouts enjoy outdoor adventures weekend

-

Scout Adventures Lochgoilhe­ad was the chosen venue for a thrilling and exhilarati­ng weekend for Lochgilphe­ad’s 19th Argyll Scout Group.

Running from Friday March 3 to Sunday March 5, 92 members ranging from sixyear-old Beavers to 17-year-old Explorers and their leaders shared in a wide range of adventurou­s activities.

Brave Beavers conquered their fears to take on new challenges including climbing Jacob’s ladder, steering a powerboat, and taking to Loch Goil on the rafts they themselves had helped build.

Courageous Cubs, Scouts and Explorers took on more advanced challenges, including abseiling down a rockface, tackling a high ropes activity, kayaking and canoeing, bushcraft and mountain biking.

On Saturday evening as darkness fell, Beavers and Cubs gathered round a lively campfire for stories and songs, while Scouts and Explorers participat­ed in an energetic game in the darkness of the forest.

Anne Smart, Argyll district commission­er, who organised the camp, said: “These adventurou­s activities help the young people to improve their mental and physical health.

“Tackling activities not previously encountere­d helps them to improve self-esteem and confidence by working outside their comfort zone.

“All activities at the centre are in a controlled environmen­t where risks are acknowledg­ed and mitigated so that the young people feel safe and confident to tackle the challenges.”

David Smart, group Scout leader, said: “The 19th Argyll Scout Group is most grateful to funders Argyll and Bute Council, Generation CashBack and MAYDS whose contributi­ons allowed us to reduce the cost of the trip, making it more affordable for participan­ts.

“We thank them sincerely for their generosity.”

Parents were kept updated on progress via the 19th Argyll Scouts Facebook page including photograph­s and humorous messages such as: “They’re up, they’re eating. No drams.”

 ?? ?? Climbing poles while attached to a harness challenged the young Scouts in a safety-conscious way.
Climbing poles while attached to a harness challenged the young Scouts in a safety-conscious way.
 ?? ?? Youngsters learned abseiling skills and how to descend safely.
Youngsters learned abseiling skills and how to descend safely.
 ?? ?? The Scouts, from Beavers to Explorers, crafted their own raft and then ‘went to sea’.
The Scouts, from Beavers to Explorers, crafted their own raft and then ‘went to sea’.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom