ARE YOU looking to learn new skills and have adventures in 2024 because the 1st Walford Scouts are already doing just that and more, guided by a team of enthusiastic volunteers.

The children and young people are encouraged to ask the bigger questions, think on their feet, be part of a team and always have a plan B up their sleeves. 

The Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 14) opened in September and have been enjoying a range of activities including scuba diving, camping, canoeing on the river Wye, and an adventure day in the Forest of Dean. 

The young people get the opportunity to decide what activities they want to do and get involved with the planning. They are boosting their confidence, self-reliance, teamwork, socialising with a wider friendship group, switching off their computers and learning practical hands-on skills. 

Chief Scout Bear Grylls believes that “young people need a friendly, safe, and supportive place to discover their talents,” 

“Now more than ever, our young people need the confidence and encouragement that Scouting gives. That’s where we come in,” he said.

The local Scouts said they loved being part of the new troop. ‘’We get to meet up with friends every week, having fun, working in a team, and taking on new challenges.’’ 

The Scouts are looking forward to taking part in caving, high ropes, cooking, an international trip and taking part in a swimathon fundraising challenge covering a distance equal to the English Channel. 

Volunteer Ros said ‘’Scouts is one of the highlights of my week seeing the pleasure our young people get from challenging themselves and achieving. Scouts learn skills that are essential to their personal development. 

“Scouting is also fun for adult volunteers as well. Volunteering’s not just about giving back, it goes both ways. It improves your wellbeing, gives you skills for the future, and helps you make new friends.’’ 

In a recent poll 94 per cent  of Scouts said they had developed useful skills. 

Scouts offers over two hundred activities from abseiling and coding to drama and water-zorbing.

The 1st Walford Scouts meet at 7pm-9pm on Monday evening at Walford Village Hall, Ross on Wye HR9 5QS. 

To find out more or if you can volunteer some time to help contact the team at [email protected]