The Cubs from 7th Retford Scout Group recently enjoyed a weekend camp at Jim Page Campsite in Laughterton, completing plenty of badge work while having lots of fun. On Friday evening, they set off on a local walk which ended, much to their delight, at the play park. Afterwards, they made their own pizzas for supper before settling in for the night. Saturday began with pancakes for breakfast, along with cereals and fruit juice. The morning activities included den building in small groups, leaf collecting, firewood gathering and fire lighting. In the cabin, they prepared pitta bread sandwiches, bananas or satsumas stuffed with chocolate, and sausages, all wrapped in foil ready to cook on the fire. They also enjoyed marshmallows, chocolate and biscuits for s’mores, before eating their lunch around the campfire.
In the afternoon, the Cubs set off on another hike, spotting horses and locating a couple of geo-caches along the way. Their walk finished, once again, at the play park, where some of the leaders met them with chocolate bars for the final stroll back to camp. Dinner was prepared on their return – and several Cubs were caught going back for seconds (and thirds!). Heavy rain arrived overnight, continuing into Sunday morning. The Cubs didn’t let that dampen their spirits – each group laid and followed a tracking trail, learned outdoor emergency aid, and practised communication skills using two-way radios and Duplo, testing how well they could give and follow instructions.
One parent said afterwards: “Just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone involved with the Cub camp this weekend – our two have not stopped talking about it for the last hour and a half and have clearly had an amazing time on their first weekend away! Thank you for making it so enjoyable and memorable for them.” Anyone interested in joining Scouting must be at least four years old – and there’s no upper age limit. All volunteers over 18 must complete a DBS check and some initial training before helping with the group. For details about the Retford group, email matt.ward@bassetlawscouts.org.uk, or for information about other local groups, contact the District Team at dlv@bassetlawscouts.org.uk.
Scout Christmas Post in the Retford area
7th Retford Scouts are once again coordinating the Scout Christmas Post this year. Any local businesses wishing to sell stamps or host a post box can contact Hazel on 07958 696122. Stamps will go on sale on Sunday 23rd November, and all cards will be delivered by Christmas Eve (as long as the address can be found and accessed).
All profits from the Christmas Post are returned to participating Scout Groups, supporting Scouting across the local area.