The activity levels of the unit have calmed down somewhat during the last four weeks due to the adverse weather and mock GCSE examinations (also reported as adverse!). We did however have a very interesting and instructive evening with Dr Chapple, who took everyone through the ABC of basic first aid and resuscitation, showed everyone how to ‘get down and personal’ with “Resusci-Anne” – skills that might one day save someone’s life.
Another evening was cosily spent popping (and smouldering!) corn at our very own ‘Movie Night’, which screened some Warner Brother cartoon classics before the main feature “Blazing Saddles” - thus correcting a very serious omission from the education of the guys present!
The weather did not remain so kind for this weekend’s event – the Dragon Boat Races at South Cerney Water Park. We contributed Hugo, Jack, Chris and James to the 16-man crew on one of the Scout boats. And Hugo took over the drummer role in the County's second boat. It didn’t matter much about getting wet from some errantly directed paddling by the guy in front – the rain fell enough to soak everyone through before the boats were barely away from the jetty! It was good fun though – even when battling against the strong head wind which at times blew a couple of the competing boats right off course.
Another great day messing about in boats!
The Sunday following the County Camp was spent enjoying the glorious Gloucestershire countryside in and around Stroud as we put our best feet forward on the Five Valleys Walk, an annual 21 mile “stroll” up and down the five main Stroud valleys, raising funds for the Meningitis Trust. The weather was ideal and everyone felt justifiably proud of his efforts in completing the walk.
Well done to those unit members (Hugo, Jack and James) who joined the ESL in supporting this annual fund raising event for this very worthwhile and local charity.
A welcome rest and eats break!
ESL in Happy Mood!!
If you went down to the Forest this weekend you would have found a motley crew of young people enjoying the camaraderie and friendship of The Beast of the Forest Camp.
With Hugo, Jack and Chris representing the 44th, we joined up with other Explorers from all around the county at the “Beast of the Forest” weekend camp near Coleford in the Royal Forest of Dean. Opportunities to try out all sorts of activities were on offer from rifle shooting, biking, abseiling and climbing, to backwoods cooking, archery and circus skills. And that was all in one day! On the Sunday water activities – canoeing, kayaking and raft building – filled the time! Evenings were spent mixing with the other county Explorers, making new friends, sharing campfire food and camaraderie. Live music and disco beats under the stars took us through to bed-down.
Special thanks to the 38th and their leaders for allowing us to team up for camp meal times.
