Scout movement on a grand scale

8:30pm Wednesday 14th May 2008

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A SCOUT group took part in an annual hiking event - and wants more Wiltshire groups to join it next year.

The 18th Swindon took part in Jamboree On The Trail (JOTT) at the weekend and involved Scouts, Cubs and Beavers.

The trail day is held every year and members of all ages of the Scouting movement, all over the world, take part in the hikes.

The 18th Swindon's yomp started on Saturday and ended on Sunday.

Phil Clarke, Group Scout Leader for the 18th Swindon said: "It's a way in which everyone, in their own way, hikes in the same direction towards a better future for Scouting.

"We all started at Barbury Castle and walked around nine miles on a trail to Ramsbury. The Beavers stayed at Barbury after seeing the older Scouts and Cubs off.

"They got to walk around the castle site and carry out a nature study and learn more about the area.

"They then went home later in the afternoon because they're quite young.

"The Scouts and Cubs meanwhile went on to Ramsbury where the Scouts stayed overnight.

"This is the first time we've entered the jamboree trail, as I hadn't heard about it before.

"Now that I know more, we'll definitely be participating the next time.

"I don't think there were enough groups from Wiltshire taking part and hopefully we'll be able to get more people involved next time around.

"It was a lot of hard work preparing everything. But it was a great experience for everyone and added to things they had to do for their badges. It not only gave them an idea of the countryside but it was also a chance for them to get fit and active.

"We were there to make sure they stayed safe, but they were responsible for directions and guiding themselves and did really well. It was quite a challenging walk for most of them I think. Twelve miles is a long way to go, especially if you have to manoeuvre yourself along paths that aren't frequently used.

"It took them out of their comfort zone and gave them a new experience to get used to. They had been quite excited about the trip and everyone had a great time."

For more information on the Jamboree, visit www.jott.org.uk and for more information on the Scout troop visit www.scouts.18thswindonscouts.co.uk