hampshire scout news july twenty fifteen

Hampshire

www.hampshirescouting.org.uk

Scout NewsJuly Twenty Fifteen

8 Hampshire Queen’ s Scouts at Windsor

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Since HSX was founded in 1986 they have run over 20 international Expeditions for Hampshire Scouts to over 10 different countries on six of the continents. In 2016 to celebrate 30 years of exploration we are heading to Cambodia. Cambodia is rich in culture, with incredible sights, beautiful beaches and a fascinating history. All elements that we wish to explore as well as meeting warm and welcoming people. The expedition aims to send 20 participants with five leaders on this four week expedition over the winter of 2016/17.

There will be 18 months of training prior to the expedition focusing on teamwork, personal development and leadership to ensure that members gain as much as possible from the experience. The hope that as well as being a life changing experience for those involved, such experiences and contacts will bring greater understanding, and therefore tolerance, of the multi-cultural society in which we live today.

The expedition aims to continue the HSX tradition of being a life changing experience for all involved and inspiring the next generation of expedition leaders.

To find out more contact: [email protected]

HSX Cambodia30 years of exploration

Twitter: @HSXOffical - Facebook: /hampshirescoutexpeditions - You Tube: HSXOnline

Badge sales are funding a large Hampshire Scouts Zebra, going on display next year. Everyone who

purchases one will also go into a prize draw to win a family ticket to Marwell, or one of 15 pairs of children’s tickets! Get in touch to get yours, before it’s

too late!

[email protected]

Limited Edition Badge!

Only£2

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County Annual Review & Annual General Meeting.

Building on our Success!

Lt Commander Henry Bruce V, RN (R’td) JP, Memorial Awards 2015

Amazing Experience!

Who Dunnit?

Nothing’s Impossible Badge.

One Thousand Crane Challenge.

1st Aldershot Group Camp.

Hampshire Scout Shows Unite!

Welcome to the July’s edition of Hampshire Scout News 2015

About UsHampshire Scouts provides adventurous activities and personal development opportunities for over 17,500 young people aged 6-25, promoting the physical, intellectual, social and spiritual well-being of the individual, helping them achieve their full potential.

In Scouting, we believe that young people develop most when they are ‘learning by doing,’ when they are given responsibility, work in teams, take acceptable risks and think for themselves.

Get InvolvedTo join the adventure of Scouting whether as an Adult or Young person then contact us at: www.scouts.org.uk/join e: [email protected] or t: 023 8084 7847

U Got news For Us?Do you have a story or success that you’d like to share? Help us to highlight and celebrate your achievements in growth, exclusivity, youth shaped and community – email us your team’s successes along with any photos to: [email protected], please keep emails less than 30mb, if they are bigger we can share our Dropbox link with you, please get in touch.

Photography AcknowledgementsWhere we can, we strive to acknowledge the owner or source of pictures used in this publication. We use them under the terms ‘for Scouting use only’. If you would like pictures acknowledged, please let us know the owners name when submitting. Thank you.

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On Thursday 18th June, over 150 people, including local Mayors, Scout Commissioners, leaders, and young people, including the County Youth Council attended the Annual Review and AGM.

After a snack buffet prepared by HSX and a look around the various stalls, including Ferny Crofts, Heritage, HSX and the Freemasons, everyone sat down to a very entertaining review, hosted by Tom Fisher and Tilly Griffiths. Reviews including

Hospital Scouting, H0014, HSX, Uganda, and the #Nothingsimpossible row across the Indian Ocean by James and Ash.

The annual Bruce Awards for inspiration were presented by Lt. Cmdr. Henry’s son Peveril, and a report on this can be read elsewhere.

The official AGM was held in the middle of the evening, where the annual report and accounts were approved, and we welcome Donna Kerrigan – CC nominated

representative, and Peter Marcus and Tom Fisher (Youth representatives) to the County Executive. Tom was also voted in as Deputy County Chair. Tilly Griffiths and Sophie Boud were elected onto the council of the Scout Association.

The evening closed with a rendition of Bridge over Troubled Water from members of the Roverang and Hedge End Shows.

The 2015 review and AGM will be held in June 2016.

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In June, we held a very successful County Annual Review and AGM, where we looked back at 2014 and talked about our future activities.

Over 150 people attended - from the Deputy Chairman of Hampshire County Council to Scouts and Explorers - and the event was compèred by three young people.

Chat show interviews were held with members of the Gambia expedition, participants in the H0014 Hampshire Jamboree, and Youth Council members and leaders – intermixed with presentations and videos about Hospital Scouting, Hampshire Scout Expeditions, and Creative Activities. The evening started with stalls manned by various clubs and projects, and ended with a great rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by singers from Hedge End Gang Show and Roverang. Plus we recognised the inspiring achievements of Bethany Harrison and Jackie Heath through the Bruce Awards.

And if you haven’t yet seen a copy of the superb Annual Report for 2014, then it’s worth tracking one down.

Looking forward, I think we need to focus on three main areas.

Everyday Adventure. Exciting activities are the lifeblood of Scouting and the reasons why young people join and stay – whether it’s travelling halfway around the world to a Jamboree, or stepping out on stage in front of hundreds of people. We need to make sure we continue to deliver great programmes, and take advantage of all the new initiatives including the Network Reboot and Hampshire Scouts Present in 2015, and the Cub Scout Centenary and our Suisse Adventure expeditions in 2016.

Quality Leadership. Recruiting the next generation of adult volunteers – both from inside Scouting and from parents – is key to our future success. But we also need to make sure our leaders have the skills, knowledge and motivation to be outstanding in their roles – whether youth workers, managers, or supporters. And this means inspiring training, effective support, and opportunities for growth and development.

Strategic Initiatives. Building on the Scout Association’s Vision 2018, we are investing in the four strategic areas of Growth, Inclusion, Youth Shaped, and Community Impact. Experimenting with new initiatives, learning from our successes, and sharing good ideas across the County. From Oakridge to Naomi House, and from Portsmouth Pride to Children in Need, we are making great progress already.

Hampshire Scouting is already a leader in each of these three areas, from our international expeditions, to our management and leadership courses, to our Youth Council which this Autumn will celebrate five awesome years of youth participation.

But of course there’s much more to do. Just as reaching the top of mountain unfolds a view of many more peaks to be climbed, we have many more challenges and opportunities, and we’ll be exploring these in detail during our Autumn County Conference on Saturday 24th October at Thornden Hall.

This summer I’m planning to visit some of our expeditions – from Tanzania to DofE Golds on Dartmoor – to see and hear for myself the amazing adventures that are part of Hampshire Scouting today. I hope your summer will be just as inspirational.


Building on our Success!

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Adam Jollans - County Commissioner, Hampshire Scouting

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This year’s awards were presented at the County Annual Review on Thursday 18th June, by Peveril Bruce, one of Henry’s sons. Peveril presented the young person award to Bethany Harrison, a 13 year old Scout; Bethany has been a very active member 14th Sholing (Itchen South) Group since she joined. Although she suffers from Cystic Fibrosis you would never know of her condition as she joins in with every activity that they do with such enthusiasm. She often puts the boys to shame as she is not afraid to try anything no matter how difficult and is always eager to take part in everything. She is a very delicate looking

girl which makes it even more surprising when she scrambles up the toughest climb or crawls through a damp cave full of energy. Bethany has completed many of the Challenge Awards and Activity Badges and not too far from completing her Gold Award. She is full of fun and has a great outgoing personality and a true inspiration to other Scouts and Leaders. The Adult award went to Jackie Heath; Jackie has been involved in Scouting since the mid 1990’s, where she joined as Venture Scout Leader (now Explorers), something she still does today. In the late 1990’s she helped put together a successful Lottery bid for

the erection of the Venture Scout Den. A building that was opened by the then County President, Dame Mary Fagan. Jackie has been an integral part of the Kairo Konka Scout Project, and has taken part, and mostly led, 7 expeditions to the Gambia, forging some remarkable friendships as well as encouraging scores of Explorer Scouts to help with this on-going project. They all say, without exception, this has changed their lives. Jackie’s presentation included a surprise letter from the team in Uganda.

Well done to both recipients, who received a plaque, certificate and cheque for £50.00

Peveril presenting Bethany with her awardPeveril presenting Jackie with her award

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Twenty Young Leaders from around the County attended Lyons Copse on 12th - 14th June 2015 to complete their Young Leader Training Modules B - I in what proved to be a very interactive weekend, which was enjoyed by all.

My thanks to Chris and Barry Samways for providing the catering and completing the washing up which allow the YL’s to concentrate on their training. Also thanks to Teresa and Dave Ginn and Lester Ayres for dropping by and providing their valuable input to a brilliant weekend. Good luck to a very enthusiastic group of Young Leaders.

Steve TurnerACC Young Leaders

Young Leaders

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Congratulations to Joe, Jack, Kathleen, Lara, James & Polly of 3rd Romsey Scouts who attended the Hampshire Chief Scout’s Gold Award presentation tonight at Thornden School. It is a huge achievement and they have all worked really hard to gain this award. They have camped, cooked, hiked, tried new things, helped others and grown so much since they started at the Troop! It was a very proud moment for family, friends (and the Scout Leader) to watch them being presented with their certificates by Jagz Bharth, Deputy UK Youth Commissioner. And he summed it up - we are very proud of them, and they should be proud of themselves - however, it is the first step in what is hopefully a very long and fun filled journey!

Sarah Beaman3rd Romsey Scout Leader - Ashanti Troop

Hampshire Chief Scout’s Award Gold Presentation

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27 Hampshire Scouts, Jessica Allmark, Heather Grimsey, Alice Hobbs, Ismay Latter, Samuel Tyler, Johanna Walukieicz and Jake Williams - Andover District, Anthony Stewart - Andover & Basingstoke West, Kirsty Bazen, Emma Buckett and Tilley Griffiths - Blackwater Valley, Robert Vine - Fareham East, Christopher Thomas - Havant, Toby Brimson, Adam Mori - Itchen North, Kirsty Sutherland - Odiham, Thomas Bosher - Portsmouth, Robert Finch - Romsey, Sam Davidson – Silchester, Thomas Bourner, siblings Ben Parker, Hannah Parker, Toby Parker and Heather Porter – Southampton, Daniel Bell and Patrick Lavery – Waterlooville and James Sawdy - Winchester District, were honoured by international adventurer Chief Scout, Bear Grylls at Windsor Castle for gaining their Queen’s Scouts Awards on Sunday 26th April 2015.

Bear was joined by Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester GCVO, who is cousin of HM The Queen.The Queen’s Scout Award is the highest honour in Scouting and is awarded for outstanding personal achievement. This honour is achieved by young people aged between 16 and 25 who have completed a range of challenges, which includes service to their community, completing an

Hampshire Queen’ s Scouts at Windsor

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expedition in wild country, undertaking a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment and learning a new skill or developing an existing talent.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: “All these young people have lived the adventure of a lifetime to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards, and I admire that spirit so much. They are huge inspirations to the other 550,000 Scouts in the UK and I am so pleased that Scouting has honoured them today. They are amazing.”

The annual Windsor Castle event has been held regularly since 1934 on the Sunday nearest to St. George’s Day (23rd April). St. George is the Patron Saint of Scouting. Since the Queen’s Scout Award was instigated, over 100,000 of these awards have been presented to young men and women for outstanding personal achievements and service to their local communities. They have learnt new skills and taken part in many of the 200 different activities on offer by Scouting across the UK.

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Amazing experience!July Twenty Fifteen

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At 5.20 am on Friday, 1st May Wight Pack’s “Brecon 2015 Expedition” began with 2 minibuses and 1 trailer leaving Warsash, Hampshire.

Twenty nine young Scouters (Cubs, Scouts and Explorers) and five leaders were heading to Hampshire County Council’s Mountain Centre in Libanus in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

This was the third Brecon expedition and these have proved so popular that numbers attending have doubled from the original 15 of the first trip in 2013.

Comfort breaks were taken on the way, including one by the “old” Severn Bridge which was a perfect photo opportunity before crossing into Wales.

Wight Pack arrived at the Mountain Centre at 10.00 am and were almost immediately getting kitted out in heavy duty overalls, wellies and hard hats for caving.

Back onto the minibuses and off to Porth-yr-Ogof caves, near Ystradfellte, which has the largest cave entrance in Wales and one of the largest in the UK at nearly 20m wide and 8m tall.

Led by fully qualified guides, the 3 groups were taken into the caves to look at the different rock formations and to learn how the geology produced the caverns.

However, the highlights were crawling through the tunnels (some with water in the bottom), dropping down through holes into more tunnels, and squeezing through tight openings. These go by fantastic names such as The Letterbox, The Corkscrew, The Toilet and the Sewer which added to the adventure! Back to the minibuses where everyone changed into dry clothes and then back to the Mountain Centre to help put away the equipment.

Then it was time to find out which rooms the youngsters were sleeping in and who they would be sharing with for the next 3 nights. They had to take their bags to their rooms, make their beds up and get their rucksacks ready for the next day, making sure they had

the correct spare clothing, hat, gloves and scarf, etc.

After such a long and eventful day, everyone tucked into dinner and chatted about the day’s activities and those still to come. Then it was time for bed to get a good night’s sleep.

During the weekend, the menu provided good, healthy food – cooked by the leaders. Breakfast was cereals, rolls, sausages, bacon and baked beans whilst evening meals included homemade spaghetti bolognaise and chicken casserole, with pasta, potatoes and rice.

The following 3 days started at 7.00 am with a wake-up call for some, whilst others had been awake bright and early! After getting dressed, breakfast was served to the excited Scouters.

Packed lunches were made and handed out to everyone to ensure energy levels would be kept up. It’s amazing how many calories are used up on these activity weekends!

For the next 2 days the Wight Pack were divided into 3 groups who did their activities separately.

One group were kitted up at the Mountain Centre and then set off in a third minibus to go canoeing for the day.

Weather conditions were cloudy for those on the water, with quite strong winds which made controlling the canoes tricky.

Despite this being the first time most had ever been canoeing, they all learned how to steer the boats, with 2 youngsters in each and the instructors and leaders looking on and giving advice.

After some practice they generally managed to go in a straight line and play ‘musical boats’ where they had to swap boats whilst their boat-buddies held the canoes steady.

The other two groups headed off in minibuses to opposite sides of Pen

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y Fan with the plan to hike up the mountain, meet in the middle, swap keys and then hike down to the other bus. What could go wrong?!

As the groups hiked up the mountain the winds strengthened and the cloud base got lower so everyone was pleased they were wrapped up warmly in woolly hats, gloves and scarves.

Shelter was provided by bivies so lunch could be eaten out of the wind. It was surprisingly warm but rather cramped with so many people inside!

After lunch it was time for the 2 groups to meet up. Visibility was limited but they were successfully reunited at Tommy Jones’ obelisk. Having said a quick hello, the groups separated again to trek down the mountain. Luckily they remembered to swap minibus keys!

Unfortunately the weather conditions were unsuitable for any of the groups to try to make the summit of Pen y Fan this year. In 2014 a smaller group from Wight Pack successfully hiked to the top which was an extraordinary achievement - but the fact that this didn’t happen in 2015 does not detract from the achievement of hiking in challenging weather conditions over tough terrain.

All the groups headed back to the Mountain Centre to hang up wet clothes and have a well-deserved hot shower. Rucksacks were then prepared for the following day’s activities and then a hot dinner which was eaten with relish! This was topped off with cake as it was one of the leader’s birthday that weekend.

The Cubs then provided Saturday night entertainment of “Brecon’s Got Talent” – although the definition of ‘talent’ was distinctly stretched!

The next day the groups that hiked the day before spent the day canoeing, but in separate locations. Highlight involved paddling along an aqueduct over a river, whilst the other group went through an extremely low bridge lying in the bottom of their canoes!

For the walking group, it was decided

that they would hike up a slightly smaller peak as the weather was still inclement, with low cloud and strong winds at height. After lunch they went gorge walking which involves walking through mountain streams and clambering over rocks and boulders.

Everyone returned to the Mountain Centre and helped to put all the equipment away. Hot showers were again followed by dinner.

Then it was back to their rooms to prepare their rucksacks for the last day’s activity and pack their main bags ready for returning home. Everyone was in bed nice and early with them reflecting on the last 3 days adventures.

The final day started as usual with a full breakfast.

Final packing was done and everyone helped to clean bedrooms, bathrooms and the dining hall. Who’d have thought that housework can be such fun when done with friends - and a vacuum cleaner can be used to create new hairstyles!

Everyone climbed on board the minibuses and drove to the Cavers car park near Ystradfellte (used on Day 1). However, today the activity was the “Waterfalls Walk”. The route follows the river upstream with beautiful scenery, steep tree-lined gorges, a Niagara-like waterfall and a chance of spotting unusual species of birds, including Pied Flycatchers, Dippers and a Redstart.After an hour of hiking through the woods and down a set of over 100 steps to the river the group reached their destination - Sgwd-yr-Eira (the “waterfall of snow”). It is possible to actually walk behind the curtain of tumbling water on a rough path used by sheep farmers of old.

This is a magical experience for everyone even though the volume of water coming over the falls was enough to soak the group with the spray thrown up.After sufficient time for photographs and video the group made their way back behind the wall of water and back up the steps to the main path. The

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sun was out so everyone dried off very quickly. After a quick snack break it was a return hike to the minibuses and back to the Hampshire Mountain Centre to put bags into the trailer and say goodbye and thank you to the centre manager.

As a treat, lunch was a visit to Macdonald’s in Merthyr Tydfil (who coped admirably being invaded by 34 very hungry Scouters!) and then continuing the journey back home. Due to a traffic jam on the M4 and having to take an alternative cross-country route, the expedition arrived back an hour later than anticipated, at 8.30 pm.

Parents were kept informed of what was happening throughout the weekend via our private and confidential Facebook page. This facility means that photos and updates can be provided regularly (whenever there is a mobile phone signal) and parents are reassured to see all the smiling faces of their children and the adventures they are having.

The Cubs, in particular, face a number of challenges when attending an adventure like this. It is not just the activities that may be daunting or difficult for them, although the idea of caving or canoeing can be disconcerting at the very least if it’s something that’s they’ve never done before. Coping with homesickness is as much a life skill as developing an increased level of self-reliance, sharing a room with people they may not know very well and having to think more for themselves and considering others around them. However, they all made incredible personal achievements and matured as individuals over the four days.

Wight Pack’s “Brecon 2016 Adventure Weekend” has been booked with the Hampshire Mountain Centre for Friday, 29 April to Monday, 2 May 2016 and places have already been reserved!

Lorna Young Assistant Cub Scout Leader

1st Warsash Sea Scouts

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On the weekend of 15th May 14th Aldershot Scouts went to camp at camp 49. There were 15 Scouts and 7 leaders out on the Friday night. On the Saturday morning at 10am the camp doubled in size as they were joined by 21 Beavers, 15 of which were camping out for the first time, After helping to put up their tents it was time to split into teams of mixed Beavers and Scouts and have a go at shelter building. They had to use all natural resources and once complete they faced the water challenge, luckily it was a warm day and they weren’t wet for long, After a break

for lunch and some free time to explore camp it was time to team up again and set off tracking, laying tracks for other teams to follow, which everyone managed to do and arrive back safely, Dinner took a bit longer to cook than was planned due to a shopping blunder with chips but after finally enjoying their dinner of chicken, chips and peas it was time for a camp fire. There was plenty of singing and storytelling followed by marshmallows and hot chocolate before bed. For some Beavers it was all too exciting and they didn’t settle down to sleep until gone

midnight. Despite a very late night they were all up rearing to go again at 7am. It was time for a full English breakfast, and camp burgers (black pudding). The Beavers then packed away all their kit ready to be picked up at 10am. The Scouts stayed on site with the leaders and packed away camp. The Beavers thoroughly enjoyed their first camp outdoors and are looking forward to hopefully joining the Scouts again in July, just enough time to let the leaders get over the first one. A big thank you to all the leaders in camp for all your help.

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The Scouts were sleuths around Romsey on a warm June evening trying to find out who dunnit and with what implement! For a while they were all missing in action - we may have lost them all!

No matter where we looked - no Scouts. We went further down the route - still no Scouts. Had they walked past us, better check - but no-one there! Then we found the group who left last! They were following the right

track - but no sign of the 3 groups that left earlier in the evening...the route was deserted!

Finally they all ended up on the correct route, with most of the questions answered and, whether it was luck, judgement or intellect is anyone’s guess, they all got it right!

Sarah Beaman3rd Romsey Scout LeaderAshanti Troop

Who Dunnit?

Walking in England www.walkinginengland.co.uk is a website packed with useful information for walkers.

With hundreds of walks to download and print, free, it also has books of walks, contact details for all the walking groups in the county and much more. Whether you want to walk on your own or with a group all the information is there in one place.

John Harris, the web site’s founder, said ‘There is so much walking information on the web but it is difficult to find. Walking in England (part of the Walking in England suite of websites – one for each county in England) has brought it together in one place so whether you are walking from home, or away on holiday, you will be able to find a walk suitable for you’.

With walks from half a mile to twelve miles plus long, and a note of suitability for pushchairs and wheelchairs, everyone can find a walk to enjoy.

So home or away, check out the websites and get walking!

John Harris

www.walkinginengland.co.uke:[email protected]

Fantastic Free

Website for

walkers!

nothing’s impossibleAmbAssAdor chAllenge 2015

Following on from the success of the 2013 Ambassador Challenge, is this year’s 2015 challenge. James Ketchell and Ash Wilson are going to row across the Indian Ocean, to raise money and awareness for The Scout Association, Young Epilepsy, and Elifar.

Any member of The Scout Association may take part in this challenge, badges will be available from [email protected] at a cost of £1.00 plus postage, with funds raised being split between Elifar and Young Epilepsy. Badges may be worn above the membership badge on the left hand side of the uniform.

In order to earn the badge, each person must complete 4 of the challenges (which you can differentiate to the group you are working with) and also the compulsory challenge.

Challenges• Sport Challenge: Try a new sport, this is something you have never done before and would like to get involved in. It could be for one evening or over duration of time.

• Long distance Challenge: Complete a long distance activity, this could be a row, a cycle, a walk or anything that can be done over a “long distance”.

• Epilepsy Awareness Challenge: Create a poster or do a presentation about Epilepsy to improve awareness to others of how it can affect people’s lives and how you can support people with Epilepsy.

• Camp Challenge: Spend a night away from home, and imagine you are Ash and Ketch having to do this for 3 months.

• Water Challenge: Complete a water activity, such as: kayaking, rowing, sailing.

• Food Challenge: Try eating a dehydrated ration pack, or try cooking something over a small one ring stove. James and Ash will be very limited in what food is available for them, so this will help you understand what their diet will be like.

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www.nothings-impossible.co.ukDeveloped by members of the Hampshire Scout Youth Council: Ali Ross, Megan Cookson, Victoria Lipscombe, Joseph Dawson and Oliver Swope

• County Challenge: Take part in a county activity, this could be anything involving other scouts from across Hampshire, the Ferny Crofts Open Day, or a large camp or activity.

• International Challenge: make contact with scouts from another country, either by email/letter or face to face by attending an international activity or trip.

• Scrabble Challenge: One of the row’s sponsors is Scrabble, try playing “extreme scrabble” up a mountain or on the water, hold a scrabble tournament, or tweet a row related word to @ captainketch.

Compulsory Challenge• Compulsory Challenge: Support Ash and Ketch, this could be writing on James and Ash’s Facebook page, tweeting James and Ash or donating to one of James and Ash’s chosen charities.


nothing’s impossibleAmbAssAdor chAllenge 2015


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Every 4 years Scouts aged from 14 to 18, from all over the world join together in a huge camp called a World Jamboree. This year over 35,000 scouts and leaders will be heading towards Japan for the 23rd World Scout Jamboree. There will be representatives from 150 different countries, some with large contingents (the UK has over 3000). Some of the smaller contingents, from less wealthy countries are financially supported by a fund called the Solidarity Programme, so as to enable them to be represented. Although the Cubs Scouts at 1th

Andover, based at St Michael’s Church Hall, are too young to go they are joining in the excitement and fun of the Jamboree as all their activities this term are based around the Jamboree. One aspect of Japan that is difficult, but important, to look at is the dropping of the 1st atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The Cub Scouts have looked at the story of Sudako and how, after being caught in the bomb blast at an early age, she developed leukemia at the age of 12. Whilst in hospital she attempted to fold 1000 origami cranes, as ancient Japanese tradition says that if you fold 1000 cranes you can make a wish. Unfortunately she did not achieve her goal. But today the origami crane is an international symbol of peace, and a reminder of the horror of nuclear war. The Cub Scouts from 11th Andover are folding 1000 cranes. The Japanese firm Mitutoyo, whose UK HQ is based in Andover, have agreed to sponsor the Cub Scouts £1 for every crane folded, the money going towards the Solidarity Project. Our ‘finished’ day, when we will hang the 1000 cranes in St Michael’s Church, is going to be this Wednesday, 10th June.

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On Sunday 26th April hundreds of Scouts from across Portsmouth came together to celebrate the most important day in the Scouting calendar, St George’s Day. Around 300 young people and adult volunteers took part in over 25 exciting outdoor activities for first time at Springfield School, Drayton, while welcoming in their new programme and members. The event offered the chance to try out archery, pioneering, inflatables and more. Explorer Scout, Angel Kerr, aged 16, said: “Every year the St George celebrations remind me of all the adventurous and challenging activities of Scouting, the friendships I’ve made and the community projects I’ve taken part in.” St George is the Patron Saint of Scouting because of his faith and courage in the presence of a danger or difficulty, including a dragon. So Scouts from all over the world celebrate in some way to reaffirm their Promise and acknowledge what it means to be a Scout. The local District also took the opportunity to recognise half of their 20 Groups growing in membership between 2014 and 2015. The top five are: the 62nd Cosham Scouts, which increased its numbers by 39 per cent; 73rd Drayton Scouts, which increased by 36 per cent; the 1st Old Portsmouth Scouts, which increased by 21 per cent; the 61st

North End Scouts, which

increased by 17 per cent; and the 54th Great Salterns Scouts, which increased by 13 per cent. The news also comes as the Scout Association has announced 250 badges are to be introduced or updated across the 6 to 18 age range, in what the Movement says is its biggest revamp in the organisation’s 108-year history. The launch of the new programme follows an extensive consultation through focus groups, surveys, social media and forums, and will now see Scouts being awarded for things like geocaching, disability awareness and community impact. Volunteer Scout Leader, Darling Duffield, aged 18, said: “Scouting is more popular today than ever before and more young people are wanting to experience the fun, challenge and everyday adventure of Scouting. However, whilst Scouting is primarily about the young people, adult volunteers can also take away a huge amount from their involvement in the Movement – from the opportunity to experience loads of activities that they would not normally experience, to boosting their CV, to being an active member of their community.” Explorer Scout, Matt Holloway, aged 14, added: “Whether you want to get involved in sports such as rock climbing and kayaking, learn new skills like first aid or DIY, or simply make new friends, Scouting offers something for everyone.”

Portsmouth ScoutsCelebrate New Badges, Growth & St George

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Gosport Explorer Scouts Kelly Warner Climbing Competition

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Gosport Explorers and Network held their annual Kelly Warner Climbing competition at Lyons Copse on the Friday 5th to Sunday 7th June.

Kelly Warner was an Explorer Scout Leader at Gosport who passed away in October 2008 at the age of 19 years old to Asthma. Kelly loved climbing, so her family Dave, Jane, Nathan, Jodie, Jamie and, Kelly’s young daughter Layla, sponsored a shield for us to organise an annual climbing competition each year.

Friday night started with the arrival of Jamie Warner, a Gosport Explorer, who under took a 50 mile sponsored cycled ride for Asthma UK and has raised hundreds of pounds for this worthy and personal cause.

Saturday the Explorers and Network undertook the climbing competition.

This years winner was Jack Hazzard, Gosport Explorer.

We also managed to sneak in a couple of investitures also.

Thanks to all involved in making the weekend a success.

Robin Peddell

Archery Beginners Course5th October to 16th November

For more information and booking please email: [email protected]

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Gosport Explorer Scouts Kelly Warner Climbing Competition

Tickets are £14.00 per person and this includes a special Marwell Zoo badge! You’ll also receive 1 free adult per 8 paying guests.

For more info and booking please visit: www.marwell.org.uk/zoo/pages/scouts/wild-day-out

On Sunday 27th September, Marwell Zoo will welcome a host of Scouts from Hampshire and across the region for a special activity day!

Scouts, cubs and beavers from 1st Aldershot Scout troop joined together to celebrate the unit’s 60th birthday at their annual group camp on bank holiday weekend. The camp took place at Camp 49 in Odiham where the youngsters had a fun weekend themed around the 60 years the group had been running.

The troop enjoyed a weekend of glorious sunshine for the celebrations which included activities based around the 60 years theme. The youngsters took part in traditional Scouting activities throughout the weekend before celebrating with a 60th party and a camp-fire.

The Scouts spent Saturday morning building camp gadgets using only rope and sticks and twigs found in the woods. These included tables, washing lines and broomsticks they could use over the weekend. Later on in the day they took part in orienteering in the woods, building fires and carving tent pegs.

Patrols were allocated a list of 60 tasks to complete on Sunday morning (all based around the number 60) and tried to complete as many of them as possible before a big game of rounders whilst the party was set up.

On return to the campsite the youngsters were greeted with balloons, flags, bunting and a tent full of party food and each given a party popper to let off. Blackwater Valley District Commissioner Becky Riley was invited to the party and said: “Thank you for letting me join you for your birthday celebrations. I had a lovely afternoon/evening”

The evening was rounded off with singing, sketches and hot chocolate by the camp-fire before a hike and striking of camp the next day.

The Scouts had a great time and parents left a very positive feedback on the group’s Facebook page.

Nathan Barham, 1st Aldershot Scouts troop

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For the first time in the history of Scouting in Hampshire, the creative talents of multiple districts will be brought together in collaboration for a one night only performance as Hampshire Scouts present ‘Stepping Out’.

Scouts from across the county will unite for this one night variety extravaganza, to be performed in the heart of our County at The Winchester Guildhall. A 130 plus strong cast featuring Basingstoke Gang Show, Hedge End Gang Show, Odiham Scout Show and Roverang Scout and Guide Show will join forces in collaboration to show off the very best in live Scouting entertainment.

This is an exciting new project for Hampshire Scouting with each individual production contributing to the performance by providing scenes and sketches of their very own, but also uniting as one with other productions to bring numbers from all genres for the public’s entertainment.

“The Scouting Vision is very clear, Scouting is about teamwork, we believe that when we work together we achieve more than we can on our own. Many a Scout has presented themselves to a local audience and maybe never ventured beyond the realms of their own district show. This event will provide additional opportunities whilst bringing Scout Shows together under a single banner to forge everlasting links of support for one another. With so many Scouts from multiple districts participating, this in itself supports our Scouting Vision 2018, We will achieve more by sharing best practice across the Movement and celebrating successes.

‘Stepping Out’ will take place on Sunday 18th October and will feature a multitude of songs from Pop to Rock, Musicals to Swing, Bollywood to Funk all mixed up with a touch of class and comedy for a night of variety to be remembered. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting ticketsource.co.uk/hampshirescoutspresent.

Hampshire Scouts are currently also actively seeking sponsorship for this event. If you have been or are involved with a Hampshire based business that you feel would benefit from the sponsorship opportunities associated with this production and Hampshire Scouting please contact us at [email protected]. As well as sponsorship we have a number of advertising opportunities in our A4 full colour glossy programme or on our website.

Scott Marshall – Hampshire Creative Activities Advisor

Stepping Out!For the first time, Scout Shows in Hampshire are coming

together for a one night performance, in the heart of

the County in picturesque Winchester at the beautiful Guildhall.

So save the date, Sunday 18th October 2015 and come along

and support some of Hampshire Scout’s most talented young

ppeople, you won’t regret it!

HSP TICKETS NOW ONSALE AT www.ticketsource.co.uk/hampshirescoutspresent

Hampshire Scout Shows Unite!

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July Twenty Fifteen

County DiaryJuly - SeptSaturday, July 4 AT M10 (First Aid) BVR Picnic in the ParkSunday, July 5 Cty Act Activity Permit Assessment - Climbing (Walls & Towers)Wednesday, July 8 AT Module 7 (eve)Saturday, July 11 AT Modules 3 and 6 Cty Act Solent Sailing RegattaTuesday, July 14 Cty Act Solent Regatta Wash Up MeetingSunday, July 26 Cty Act BCU Foundation Safety & Rescue Training CourseJuly 28- Aug 8 WSJ - JapanAugust 27 - 31 DoE Open Gold Qualifying Expedition DoE Open Gold Qualifying ExpeditionThursday, August 27 Cty Core Team meetAugust 28 - 31 CarFestThursday, September 3 QSA ReceptionSeptember 4 - 6 Cty Act Hampshire Scout Caving Club Training Weekend Cty Act Hampshire Scout eXpedition - Training weekendSaturday, September 5 AT Modules 11 & 12 (A & B) BVR County meeting SouthSunday, September 6 Cty Act BCU Foundation Safety & Rescue Training CourseSaturday, September 12 Cty Act County Archery Competition AT M10 (First Aid) BVR County Meeting NorthSunday, September 13 Cty Act County Archery Competition TBC Hospital launchWednesday, September 16 AT H3 Safety Training WorkshopSeptember 18 - 20 EmlynSeptember 19-20 Cty Act Solent Pulling & Paddling RegattaSaturday, September 19 AT M10 (First Aid) Cty Act SS Shieldhall Training Day (alongside) TBC Hospital launchSunday, September 20 AT Module 13 AT Module 25

The Clove H

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Suisse Adventure Summer 201614th – 28th August

£650 plus food and additional activities

I had an absolutely amazing time in Switzerland over the past two weeks which I’m never going to forget. Thank you to all who were there to share the experience!Andy Turpin

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After two amazing weeks away there is nothing better than a good shower and a sit down on the sofa. Thanks to all the Suisse13 people Bring on Suisse16!Matt Ford

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www.sa16.weebly.com

Open to Hampshire Explorer Scouts and Scout Network

hampshire scout news july twenty fifteen

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