Special Free Press feature: Focus on 1st Bridlington Cubs and Beavers

Janice Hardwick and Emma Szpakowski run the group which usually meets at The Priory Rooms near The Priory Church.

They have been creating activities for the cubs and beavers to keep them entertained during the lockdown.

Emma said: “During lockdown Janice and I decided to set-up a closed Facebook page for the parents and carers of the cubs and beavers.

“We were unsure on how successful this would be but we wanted to make an effort to keep our pack together and interacting with each other.

“Our thoughts were that even if just a couple of children took part in the activities it would be wonderful to make a little difference to their daily routine. We have been overjoyed with the response!

“Each term Janice and I put a pack together containing craft supplies and everything the children will need to join in with the adventures.

“Every Tuesday we post a short video and instructions about the activity.

“The children have been absolutely wonderful and regularly take part.

“The children have earned lots of badges so far. On January 15 children took part in the ‘Winter Camp’ which was an online event organised by the Scouting association including lots of fun activities.

“Three children even camped outside on a snowy January night!

“This term we are working towards our Naturalist badge, International badge, Faith Badge, Cooking Badge, Craft Badge and Adventure Award.

“Our activities planned for this term are: star gazing and learning about constellations, treasure hunt with clues involving a two-mile walk and learning the countryside code, baking Easter treats, exploring the Priory grounds and old town of Bridlington and lots of crafts.

“Jack Knowles made an amazing diary about his activities during lockdown which has been an inspiration to the rest of the pack and earned him ‘Cub of the Year’ trophy.

“C-J Walker has been a beaver and moved up to cubs during lockdown. His little brother Charlie Walker became a beaver just before lockdown and made his promise via video.

“As we are not charging any subs at the moment we have been reliant on the kind donations of supplies.

“Haven at Thornwick Bay have been amazing, donating Christmas gifts, sweets and baking supplies, as have many of the parents and carers.

“We are looking forward to getting back to face-to face Scouting and adventuring together! We would also love to welcome new members and volunteers.

“We would like to thank the children, volunteers, parents and carers for their amazing support. We are extremely proud of what our pack has achieved.

“As a pack we are very lucky to have a lot of dedicated helpers but are lacking in young helpers who are interested in adventure and education. Becoming a young leader provides wonderful courses and experience and helps towards the Duke of Edinburgh award.”

District Commissioner Chris Bennett said: “during these challenging times it is fantastic to see what the leaders at 1st Bridlington Scout Group have been putting together for the young people.

“It is also shows how much time and effort the leaders have putt in to keep the group going.

“All our leaders are volunteers and give up their time for free to putt on these fantastic activities.

“If you feel that you could help in any way within scouting or your child would like to join a group please email Chris [email protected].”