Thirty-six Scouts and volunteer leaders from the 1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group recently returned from an action-packed activity week in France. Staying at a campsite in Hauteville-sur-Mer, Normandy, they spent the week engaged in a number of activities, including climbing, rafting, kayaking, high ropes, crate stacking, archery and fencing.
For many, this was the first time they had encountered the opportunity to do these activities and several overcame personal challenges to achieve new goals … including leaders!
An excursion day was spent at the Normandy American Cemetery (adjacent to Omaha Beach) and the Arromanches 360 cinema. Both visits provided a unique and memorable insight into D-Day and the sacrifices made during this period in our history. The Group couldn’t go without recognising this and carried out a wreath laying ceremony at the centre of the memorial colonnade. The staff and several members of the public who watched the ceremony (in the pouring rain), commented on how dignified and respectful the Scouts were. It was certainly a proud moment and not a single one came away without being affected in some way and recognising how important it was to make the excursion.
The Group also managed to fit in a visit to the world renowned and fascinating Bayeux Tapestry. Given that most of the Scouts don’t even sew their own badges on, this incredible 70m long embroidery was all the more impressive!
This was the first overseas trip in the Group’s relatively short history and a massive thank you to all those volunteer leaders who made it possible. The Group is now looking at carrying out an overseas trip at least every couple of years, and will looking even further afield and with even more exciting activities.
If you’re interested in volunteering and making a difference for the young people of Bradley Stoke … and to yourself, please contact:
Clive Mason – Group Scout Leader
1st Bradley Stoke Scout Group
clive.mason@1stbss.org.uk
