ROWING the channel, supporting strongman, exploring caves, and taking part in Chard’s Remembrance service were just some of the activities in an action packed week for Chard’s scouts.

Cubs also debated for UK Parliament week, while scouts marked bonfire night with a campfire, smores and wide games.

Ben Preston, group scout leader, said: “It has been a busy few weeks for those at 1st Chard Scout Group.

“We have rowed the channel, met witches, been in the hunger games and of course taken part in remembrance parade.”

The 1st Chard Beavers, from ages six to eight, enjoyed a visit from the UK’s first disabled strongman, Gary Clarke, who spoke and gave a demonstration of his impressive strength.

They also attended a Beaver day at Wookey Hole where they explored the caves and took part in a series of activities.

As the country closes in on another general election, 1st Chard Cubs (aged eight to 10.5) joined in with the political spirit by debating subjects in their sixes and deciding whether they should be enforced or not.

Cubs and scouts also took part in the overlord challenge by rowing a combined distance of 42.12 miles - the same and crossing the channel and back.

Ben added: “The image of Scouts just tying knots and signing ging gang gooli round a campfire are long gone.

“Yes, we do still have campfires and have some of the old traditional scouting methods still there, but we are far from the old days.

“Hence why we are the Scout Movement because we are always moving forward.”

One of the traditions for 1st Chard group is taking part in the town’s Remembrance Sunday service.

Scouts also marked bonfire night with outside activities.

“There isn’t much we don’t do,” said Ben.

“For example this year we have taken part in Science museum sleepover, Pirate camp, Hunger Games camp, Kayaking, Rafting, Canoeing, Archery, Climbing, High Ropes, Expedition hikes and so much more.

“We currently have upcoming over the next few weeks a trip to Paignton Zoo, Flip Out, and the Scouts are going Skiing. The Scouts are even planning an international trip in 2021.”

This is all provided with the help of volunteers, but the 1st Scout group is looking for more people willing to give up their time.

Ben added: “We do require some more adult volunteers to help with providing these amazing experiences to our young people.

“This could be from becoming and adult leader or becoming a member our executive committee.”

You can also support the group by attending the Christmas fayre on November 30 at Holyrood Academy lower site.

For more information, contact chardscoutgroup@outlook.com.