A GROUP of Prestwick scouts recently enjoyed their annual camp out at Dumfries House.

The weekend saw a group of 41 excited Beavers and Cubs spend just over 24 hours at the Dumfries House Estate. Laughter was heard from all the bedrooms as the Beavers and Cubs all tried to put fitted sheets on their bunk beds, clearly a life skill which needs more practice.

Once bunks were made almost straight away the young people were split into groups of 10/11 to face their fears and learn new skills.

Group Scout leader for the 14th Ayrshire Scout Group (Prestwick) Fiona Hainey, was very impressed with the Beavers and Cubs, saying: “All of the leaders were extremely proud of the behaviour and teamwork of all of the Beavers and Cubs. Many of them were worried about being away from home for the first time and trying something new, but with the support of their fellow Beavers and Cubs, they faced their fears and didn’t give up.”

The Beavers and Cubs built shelters – even testing their creations under rain (a bucket of water ) and wind from all their laughter.

They then completed the team work challenge on the obstacle course. There was some great encouragement from their fellow team mates.

All the young people earned their Outdoor Challenge badges and Nights Away Activity Badge.

On top of this, one of the Beavers also achieved his Chief Scout’s Bronze Award, which is the highest award Beavers can earn.

Young Harrison was the worthy recipient of this award.

Beaver Aidan also earned Beaver of the Year for most improved Beaver.

Forbes, one of the Cubs who attended the camp, enjoyed a variety of different activities but said:“My favourite part was sitting around the fire toasting marshmallows, and climbing as high as I could on the climbing wall.”

Leader Fiona added: “Nothing beats the adventure of Scout Camp.

“Scout camps have been proven to improve young peoples self-esteem, self-confidence, interpersonal skills, including teamwork, time management, leadership, and self-motivation.

“What could be more fun then bunking with friends and having bucket loads of adventure into the bargain.

“Well done Beavers and Cubs of the 14th Ayrshire Scout Group (Prestwick) for an

amazing end of term group camp. Enjoy your summer break!”

Kyle and Carrick District Scouts have set up a Just Giving page with the aim of providing some support to all our young people attending International Camps in the future.

If you would like to donate, helping towards achieving their Scouting dream, you can do so by going to the Kyle and District Scouts website or Facebook page.