A busy term for youngsters from 2nd Runcton Holme and Watlington Scout group

It has been a busy term for all sections of the 2nd Runcton Holme and Watlington Scout group with Beavers, Cubs and Scouts taking part in a variety of events and challenges.

Cubs, Scouts, young leaders and leaders had a memorable day at Lynn’s VE Day 80th commemoration event as they paid tribute to the courage and resilience of such a remarkable generation.

Beavers have had fun growing tomato plants with some plants now taller than the youngsters themselves. They also welcomed a special visitor, John Rospopa, district lead volunteer, to a meeting to help with their first aid badge work.

This has seen the Beavers understanding the importance of getting help and what to do in an emergency. The group has also been looking at safety in the home, spotting potential hazards in the Scout hall’s kitchen and learning how to stay safe.

Visitors have also included a handler and her guide dog which helped the Beavers and Cubs understand the important role guide dogs play in people’s lives.

Cubs have been getting active with lots of outdoor challenges including map-making walks, shelter building, cooking bread and teamwork games. They also made games from recyclable materials.

Nine Scouts completed their expedition challenge during the heatwave. It involved a two-day exploration with a night away, requiring active planning and navigation skills. This term, the Scouts have been looking at communication and leadership skills, getting involved in challenges which have made them think on their feet. Three Scouts attended an activity day hosted by candidates applying to be unit leaders for the next World Scout Jamboree.

This term also saw farewells to youngsters as they continued their journey through the organisation and the presentation of a Chief Scout gold award to one member. There was also a farewell to a young leader.

A host of events have been held to raise money for group activities such as bowling trips, cinema nights and new camping equipment. A quiz night raised £270, £116 was netted at Watlington fete, and £20 was raised at a book stall at the village sale.

The group is always pleased to receive donations of raffle prizes, and adult volunteers are needed for the Beavers, who currently meet on Tuesdays but could potentially switch to Wednesdays if more adult helpers come forward. If you can help the groups in anyway contact Laura at 07557196214 or Andy at 07460870285

* Beavers meet on Tuesdays, from 5.15pm to 6.30pm for six to eight-year-olds.

* Cubs also meet on Tuesdays but from 6.30pm to 8pm for those aged eight to ten-and-a-half.

* Scouts meet on Mondays, 6.30pm to 8.30pm for those aged between ten-and-a-half to 14.

Reporting by Theo Bradford