January began with a flurry of activity at 7th Retford Scout Group.
The opening sessions included games evenings, while Cubs learned about the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Snake. Scouts participated in a book session led by one of the Scouts as part of her Team Leader Challenge. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts also worked towards their Navigator Staged Badges.
The NESST Challenge Walks took place on Saturday 18th January, with the new Squirrel Drey joining Beavers and Cubs in the event. Scouts and Cannon Choughs Explorer Scout Unit took part in the 10-mile Short Challenge Walk through the night, with all participants successfully completing the challenge.
The final weekend of January saw the group embark on a Winter Weekend in Humberstone, near Cleethorpes. A total of 26 people attended, with some sleeping in the Wintringham Centre while others braved the cold in tents. On Saturday, the group hiked approximately four miles to the seafront, stopping for lunch and games on the beach before arriving at the RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Station for a tour. The station is preparing to move to a new facility nearby and has already received a new lifeboat, as the previous one had to be retired after nearly 12 years of service. Following the visit, the group played games on the beach, enjoyed a chip shop tea, and then attended a roller disco at the leisure centre. A minibus took them back to the campsite for supper and bed.
Sunday brought sunnier and slightly warmer weather. Those over the age of eight, including two adults, took part in rifle shooting and archery, while the under-eights had a session of soft archery and Nerf games indoors. Scouts and Explorers packed up their tents, and everyone tidied their kit in time for parents to collect them.
The next camp is planned for the Bank Holiday Weekend in May, with more activities lined up. Anyone interested in volunteering with the group is encouraged to get in touch. One of the parents attended the camp despite not regularly volunteering at weekly sessions, demonstrating that flexible involvement is possible. Much of the training is now available online and can be completed in personal time. Those who work shifts or can only volunteer occasionally are also welcome. No prior Scouting experience is necessary.
Additionally, volunteers are needed for non-face-to-face roles, including Chairperson and Secretary positions. All adult volunteers must complete a Scouting DBS check and initial training.
For enquiries about joining the group, please contact 07958 696122 or email 7thretford@gmail.com. The minimum age for membership is four years, and early placement on the waiting list is advised.