13 Mar 2006
| Exploring in the Snow | ||
| Avon Scouts
N E W S R E L E A S E Issued: 13 March 2006
Over 150 Explorer Scouts from around the former Avon area overcame blizzard conditions during their overnight exercise on the Mendips on Saturday (11 March) and Sunday (12 March). 25 Teams of between 4 and 7 Explorer Scouts completed a 10 mile circuit around the Mendip Hills during the night while navigating using map & compass. They had various challenges to attempt along the way such as trying not to break 4 sticks of spaghetti and composing limericks! The young people from 2°29west (Longwell Green) and Downend Explorer Scout Units from near Bristol took first and second place respectively in this year’s Rickard Shield Competition. Gary Welsh, Event co-ordinator, explained "The teams are to be congratulated for their positive attitude and behaviour in what were challenging conditions. Conducting the exercise whilst it was snowing certainly added something to the event" Gary added that "The event was tightly controlled and monitored so that teams were never far from route marshals, and we were constantly monitoring the weather conditions in case it was necessary to cancel the event. I'm sure the young people enjoyed the event even more because of the weather conditions." The competition, open to 14 -18 year old members of the Scouting and Guide movements, is held in memory of Mark Rickard who died from cancer in 2003. Mark, who came from Backwell, was an enthusiastic supporter of scouting and in celebration of his work many of his former work colleagues at the Valuation Office Agency plan and execute this annual event. Boys and girls aged 14 to 18 can become Explorer Scouts. Information on Explorer Scouts, and the other opportunities provided by Scouting, is available at www.avonscouts.org.uk, by calling 0845 3001818 or by emailing joinus@avonscouts.org.uk - ENDS - Further information: Photo: |
||
|
