Squirrel Scouts

A brilliant time was had by all when the 27^th Bonnybridge spent two days paddling on the Barrwood reservoir.  A group of beavers, cubs, scouts and North Star explorers pulled on buoyancy aids and helmets and used two Saturdays to learn how to paddle and manoeuvre kayaks, paddle boards and canoes.  For many of the young people it was their first venture on to the water.  Group lead volunteer, Helen Smith said: “We wanted to give the young people the opportunity to try something new during the school holidays. It worked out really well because it was sunny on both days. Plus, the scouts and explorers were able to increase their skills and helped the younger children by paddling the Canadian canoe with them on board.”

A Scouting family from Troop 175, in Florida, who host the 93^rd Braes Scout Group during their American trips, recently enjoyed a day in the Barrwood accompanied by members of the 93^rd.  The Drake family were touring around Europe, ending in Scotland but they just had to visit the local campsite after hearing so much about it.  

They made their own pizza for lunch and even had a go at crate climbing which is not done in Florida.  Isabella is pictured with Jake Wadell from the 93^rd, after spending the day on the water.   Scouting is indeed a large and international family.

The 51^st Dennyloanhead Scouts recently enjoyed another fantastic group sleepover. This time, youngsters from Beavers to Scouts braved the ‘deep’ and camped in the underwater tunnel of the Loch Lomond Sealife Centre.

They enjoyed many encounters with the sea creatures from the exploratory rock pools, pongy Otters, a stubborn and independent 3-legged Turtle, an enormous attention-seeking Grouper but especially the six-foot-long Stingray which was equally fascinated by the Scouts lying in the tunnel.

On Sunday morning they explored the shores of Loch Lomond and visited the Birds of Prey centre where they enjoyed the discovery trail and were wowed by the flying display.

On the 7th March the 51st Dennyloanhead Squirrel Drey celebrated its 1st birthday and of course they had to have a party with crowns and cake! They enjoyed soft archery, bowling, giant Jenga and bouncy castles. They have had a whirlwind of a year and thanks to the volunteers and parents they have climbed, caved, sung around campfires and explored. They visited the Fire Station and achieved the 1st stage of the Emergency Aid badge. The volunteer leaders have learnt a lot, but mainly that there isn’t very much the ‘Wee Reds’ can’t do. Full steam ahead into our 2nd year and plans for our first camp.