See you in the New Year!

Have a fantastic Christmas everyone! Meetings resume 6/7th January 2010.

Seasons Greetings

Can I take this opportunity to wish all our members and their families a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY, HEALTHY NEW YEAR! from all the Leaders of the Group. Thank you for your support throughout the year. We couldn't do it without you.

Christmas Party

Don't forget the party for Beavers and Cubs is on the 23rd at 5:30 to 6:45. We have music, laughter, snacks and games. See you there.

Scouts FlightSim Sleepover Postponed

Apologies for the short notice, but I'm afraid we're going to have to postpone the Scouts FlightSim Sleepover we were holding this coming weekend due to lack of leaders. We are trying to rearrange for early in the new year so watch this space for details.

A reminder that it's the Panto tomorrow night. Those who have ordered tickets need to arrive at the Academy Theatre in Birdwell from 6.00pm. The show starts at 6.30pm.

If you're not going to the Panto there are no section meetings this week so we'll see you on Sunday morning for the Christingle Church Parade. Meet at 10am. Finish approx 11.45am. Parents are very welcome to stay for the service.

Beavers/Cubs Christmas Party

We will be hosting a party for Beavers and Cubs on WEDS 23rd December. Times are 5:30 to 6:45. Light refreshments will be provided.

CHRISTINGLE SERVICE

The annual Christingle service will be held on Sunday 20th December. This a lively, fun event suitable for all the family. Please meet at the hall at 10am and collect kids from the church approx. 11:45 if you are not staying. Wear full uniform. You might want to bring some money for the collection.

Beavers

Those Beavers who brought their Healthy Eating posters in this week were awarded their badge. You can get yours too when you bring your poster.

Scouts Flight Sim Sleepover Weekend - 19th to 20th Dec 2009

There is a Scouts flight sim sleep over planned for the 19th to 20th December 2009.

You need to print this form off and return it with your deposit this Wednesday!

All the details are available from the link below.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/23659348

Ask Ed, Ian or Rich if you need to know anything about this.

Ed.

PANTO CLASH!

Just to let you know that, as organiser of this outing, I am aware that Oakhill School has arranged a school concert on the same evening. Unfortunately, if you choose not to go to the panto I cannot give you a refund. Sorry.

Beavers

Well Done Beavers - you all received your Global Challenge Badges tonight. Don't forget your homework next week. You have to make a poster about healthy foods and unhealthy foods. You can draw pictures or cut out pictures from magazines (ask Mum first!) or use pictures from a computer. It's for a badge so do your best! Bring it next week and you can get your Healthy Eating badge.

And parents, just in case you are wondering, we have some new Leaders on the Team - Emma, Steve and Lynne - supporting Sara, Emily and me!

panto details

Please meet at the Academy Theatre at 6pm as we need to be seated for the performance to start promptly at 6:30. When you arrive please tell me so I can tick you off my list. Parents, can you take coats home with you unless you have got a ticket to stay. I will hold all the tickets and hand them over altogether as that's easier for the staff. There will be sweets and light up wands and suchlike on sale that you can buy before the performance so parents can you see to that before you leave if your child wants something. There will be an interval when we can buy sweets, drinks, crisps, icecream etc so if your child will want something you will need to send them with some money. It's up to you how much money you send, I am not setting limits.

Children need to wear uniform tops and neckers. Pick up will be approx 8:45 but it is not possible to be specific as it ends when it ends. Please wait in the foyer from 8:30 ish. That's all I can think of for now.

December Dates for your diary

16th December will be panto night for all the Group who have got tickets.

17th December - no Cubs tonight as we saw you all last night.

20th December will be our Family Christingle Service

23rd December there will be Beavers

24th December - Christmas Eve so no Cubs!

30th December - no Beavers tonight.

31st December - sorry Cubs - it's New Years' Eve

Both Sections as normal from then on.

Scouts - Ian will let you know what your section is doing

panto update

If you have ordered a ticket but not paid for it yet could I ask you to send in the money next week. I have to pay for them as soon as possible now. All 81 tickets have been taken so sorry if you wanted to go but left it too late.

Scouts Win District Swimming Competition

Six Scouts represented Ardsley at the District Swimming Gala on Saturday 7 November: Ronan, Emily, Ewan, Thomas, Wesley and Lawrie, and I'm very pleased announce that we were overall winners! We are lucky to have two very talented young swimmers in Ewan and Thomas, who won all their events, but they had excellent support from Ronan, Emily, Wesley and Lawrie. In this event it's the overall team score that decides the winner and every member of our team gave a hundred per cent. They can be very proud of their achievement. Unfortunately we just lost out in the relay, which would have made it a clean sweep, but our team was much younger than the team from Hoyland that beat us, which bodes well for coming years.

Well done everyone who took part. Next year we will be defending champions so I hope you'll turn out in force to try to retain the trophy.

CHURCH PARADE UPDATE

I'm afraid only 13 Cubs came to attend this very respectful and important service. The ones who did come were extremely well behaved throughout what can seem to be a very long service with unknown hymns and an awful lot of prayers and talk. Very different to the usual interactive Family Services we attend. So, well done you lot. We are proud of you.

SWIMMING GALA UPDATE

Cubs - a poor turnout this year - only 4 came to swim for our Group. Niall, Lucy, Jack B and Amy. However, they were fantastic and won heats and finals galore and swam their hearts out. The scoring system meant that we came third overall but our Cubs are winners in our eyes! I will order your medals tomorrow kids!

Scouts - I'll let your Leader post his own blog but Kim and Akela were very proud of our ex-Cubs. You thoroughly deserved your trophy!

Lock N Load and Sleep Over - 27th November 2009

There are only 2 available places left for the Lock N Load sleepover on the 27th November 2009.  If you want to go please bring your £5 deposit by next Wednesday 4th November 2009.  Ed.

District Swimming Gala - 7 November

Here's advance notice of a couple of events coming up in early November:

7 November - District Swimming Gala

This is a very popular not-to-be-missed event for all sections, which this year is being held at Wombwell Baths on the evening of Saturday 7 November. There are competitive races for Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers, and for Beavers there's a fun swim. Everyone who turns up will have an opportunity to swim.

8 November - Remembrance Sunday Church Parade

This is one of two church parades in the year where we ask for and expect a full turnout, the other is the St. George's Day Parade in April. This church parade is for Cubs, Scouts and Explorers only. We will be meeting, as usual, at 10.15am and expect to finish by 11.45am.

More details will follow, but please put these dates in your diary.

Lock'n'Load Sleepover - 27 November

We are planning a Scout Sleepover on Friday 27 November. On the Friday evening we will be going to Lock'n'Load, the new laser scope entertainment centre in Rotherham, before returning to the Scout Hut for a sleepover. The event will finish at 12 noon on the Saturday. The cost will be £15 including admission to Lock'n'Load, supper and breakfast.

Any Scouts wishing to go must bring a £5 non-returnable deposit next week, so that we can secure the Lock'n'Load booking.

BOWLING NIGHT

We need to know THIS THURSDAY if you are going.

PANTOMIME

A reminder to let Kim know if you need a ticket for the panto. Time is running out.

CROSS COUNTRY

On Sunday 18th the District Cross Country event for all sections will be held at Silverwood Scout Site. Please meet in suitable running wear at 12 for registration. Parents will need to stay with their children as the event will end anytime after 2, depending upon the number who turn up. There are races for each age group and prizes for winners. Beavers and Cubs, please let Kim know this week if you will be going or not. Thanks.

Summer Camp Update

By now all cubs, scouts and explorers should have received a letter about next year's Summer Camp, which is at Blackwell Adventure. If you haven't had a letter, or you've lost it, please ask for a copy.

We've had a very good initial response so far. There are just 6 places left on the first two minibuses. Once these are taken, we will take names for a third minibus but these places will be provisional, as we need to fill more than half the seats for it be economically viable.

Also, we still have a few items of lost luggage from the last Summer camp. If you haven't already looked through them can you please do so next week. This is your last chance - they will be thrown out if they are not claimed.

Reminder: Church Parade this Sunday, 10.15am at the Scout Hut, Full Uniform.

bowling night for cubs

I have arranged for Cubs to go to Barnsley Bowl, Carlton on Thursday 22nd October. Meet there at 6:45 for a prompt 7pm start. Parents are welcome to stay and watch or collect Cubs at 8:15. It will cost £6, which includes chips and a drink. If you don't want chips and a drink then it will cost £4. Money payable to Kim no later than 15th October please. Please wear uniform.

This Sunday - Harvest Festival Church Parade

It's the Harvest Festival Church Parade this coming Sunday, 4th October at Christ Church, Ardsley. We hope all beavers, cubs, scouts and explorers will attend. We'll be meeting at HQ from 10.00am; the service starts at 10.30am. We expect to finish at 11.45am approx. Please come in full uniform and bring a contribution for the collection.

Our friends at the church go to a lot of trouble to involve us in the service and make it child-friendly and fun, so please come along and show your support.

Parents are welcome to stay for the service.

Edale Camp - Permission to Camp form

If you didn't get a PTC form, or managed to lose it, you can grab one here.

Please try to email and let us know if you're coming:

info@ardsleyscouts.org.uk

Thanks,

Rich

panto update

The panto outing is to be held on WEDS 16th DECEMBER. Please let me have your £5 as soon as possible, but no later than THURS 22nd OCTOBER. I am afraid that I must confirm my booking then so if you are late getting your money to me then I cannot guarantee you a place at a later time. I will confirm the times etc nearer the event.

PANTOMIME TIME!

I am trying to organise our pantomime trip to the Academy Theatre at Birdwell. It is Mother Goose and promises to be as funny as the last one as it is the same company. I am trying to get seats for Weds 23 December and need to know as quickly as possible how many I need. They cost £5 each. Could you please let me know as soon as you can if your child will want to go. I just need a rough idea of numbers at this time.

BEAVER SLEEPOVER UPDATE

Beavers made the most of the beautiful weather this weekend walking and playing in the woods. After settling excitedly into their bunkrooms and getting changed we went for a walk in the woods finding pine cones and the occasional acorn before collecting armloads of wood for our evening campfire. We played a game of Whacko! at some point as well. Tea was a huge success of hotdogs, onions, loadsa pizza and salad with fruit salad and yoghurt for dessert. Then we got warm jumpers on and our torches and headed down to the fire for a rousing singsong before having fun with glowsticks in the dark. Back up to the main hall for a disco and musical games then getting into PJ's for supper, which was hot chocolate and biscuits. Bed at 10pm with the last sleepyhead admitting defeat around 01:10am. Bliss! Until 06:10 when Beavers started to wakeup. After packing bags, getting washed, teeth brushing etc. we enjoyed a hearty breakfast of cereals, juice and toast before having a few minutes peace in the campsite chapel for what's known as a Scout's Own. Next we headed off to see the wild pigs and sheep but I think they must have been scared of us because they were hiding! So, back up to the woods to play again then back to base for squash, crisps and biscuits. Then a brilliant set of games with the parachute and then I'm afraid everyone started to flag. Well. we had packed an awful lot of activity into such a very short time. Fortunately, parents started to arrive to take everyone home.

So, a huge success. On behalf of parents and children I would like to thank Sara and Charlotte (our new Cub Leader) for all their hard work as well as thanking Anita, Adam, Robyn and Marie from Darfield for their hard work too. We put an awful lot of time and effort into this weekend and hope the children enjoyed it as much as we all did! All the children from both groups were brilliant! A credit to us and to yourselves! Here's to our next one!

Beaver kitlist

Just a reminder: Medication: Any medication must be handed to the Camp Leader on arrival. Please ensure your child’s name and exact dose are clearly marked on the container.

What to take: Beavers will need a sleeping bag, activity clothes, change of underwear and socks, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, towel, and a torch. We will supply cutlery, etc. Please arrive at the campsite in beaver uniform. Also bring a coat.

See you at Silverwood at 2pm

Edale Camp 10th October

We're running a lightweight camp in Edale, up in the peak district for one night on 10th October.

The camp is only open to those aged 13 or over on 10th October.

More details can be downloaded in PDF format here.

Squirrel Wood Arrangements

Just a quick recap of the arrangements for this weekend's Patrol Camp for Scouts. The venue is:-

Squirrel Wood Scout Camp
The Abbes Walk
Burghwallis
Doncaster
South Yorkshire
DN6 9JQ

Leaders are aiming to get there for 6.30pm tonight (Friday), so please don't arrive before then. I'm not sure which site we've been allocated so, if in doubt, report to reception and they will point you in the right direction.

Remember to bring your Permission To Camp Form with you. I will have a few spares with me just in case. If you haven't already paid in full please bring the balance of your camp fee (£15).

You can download a Kit List from here. Please dress for the weather conditions and make sure you have at least one complete change of clothes. Strong boots or shoes will be required for axe and saw work. Usual rules apply as regards penknives. No mobile phones please.

Pick up from Squirrel Wood on Sunday at 2pm.

WETLANDS EVENT - URGENT UPDATE

I am really very sorry about this but unfortunately the Wetlands Centre are unable to accommodate us on Saturday due to a lack of their staff. Please pass this on to anyone you know. I will try to arrange a visit for us later in the year or early next year. Once again, I apologise for having to cancel it.

Summer Camp 2010

Letters will be going out early September for next year's Summer Camp, but here's a sneak preview for our blog readers.

In view of the general economic uncertainty we've decided not to go to France next year. Instead we've opted for a UK venue, and the cost will be £195, the same as this year.

The dates will be Saturday 24th to Saturday 31st July 2010. As usual the camp will be open to Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers.

The venue will be Blackwell Adventure in Worcestershire. We've not been before but it's a fantastic site. Check out their website for further details.

You can start saving up, but please don't bring any money yet, as we're not geared up for it.

More details soon.

Beaver Wetlands Visit

Drop Beavers off at the centre on 5th September just before 10am with £4.50 (if you haven't already paid) and a packed lunch and drink. Wear uniform and suitable footwear for possible muddy conditions - and a coat if the weather isn't so good. Collect Beavers at 3pm. Any questions drop me an email using the link provided.

Scout Camp - Squirrel Wood

After the success of Summer Camp 2009, we just can’t wait to get back to the Great Outdoors. This time we’re off to Squirrel Wood near Doncaster for a weekend camp. It’s a site we’ve not been to for some time so it’s something not to be missed even for our veteran campers.

The camp dates will be from Friday 4th September (evening) to Sunday 6th September (afternoon) and will cost £15 per person. Drop off and pick up details will be finalised nearer the time.

We're asking for a £5 non-refundable deposit to secure a place. Last date for receipt of deposits is 26th August.

Beavers Upcoming Events

If you haven't already done so please make sure you book your place on either or both the Wetlands Centre event on 5th September and the Sleepover at Silverwood on 19/20th September. I have to finalise numbers as soon as possible. Email me via the blog.

Beavers will be running as normal for the rest of the summer.

Beavers Next Week

Due to work commitments I will be unable to run Beavers next week. I apologise for any inconvenience caused. Kim

Summer Camp - Thanks

Well that's Summer Camp over for another year - I hope you all had a good time. Can I just thank all the leaders and helpers who gave up their time to make it happen. We couldn't do it without them. No doubt we'll be uploading some photos in the next few days so watch this space.

If you have any items of clothing/equipment that don't belong to you, bring them up to cubs/scouts and we'll try and reunite them with their owner. If you're missing anything please check our lost luggage pile as soon as possible.

The next camp for Scouts will be a Patrol Camp that we're organising for the weekend of 4 - 6 September. More details soon.

Can I also remind you that August Subs are due this week.

Summer Camp Kit List

We've been asked to post the Summer Camp Kit List so here it is:-

The items below are to be packed in a rucsac, canvas holdall or sports bag, which we will be loading onto the van on Friday 24th July at 7.00pm.

To avoid damage in transit make sure all items are securely packed. Put your clothes in colour-coded plastic bags inside your main pack for extra waterproofing.

Please make sure all items are clearly marked with your name or initials!

We reserve the right to reject overweight bags. Please take only what you need - we are camping for a week, not a month!

Clothes

• Coat/fleece
• Waterproof trousers
• Hat or Cap (for sun protection)
• Woolly hat (for cold evenings)
• Jumper
• Pyjamas/nightwear
• Underwear
• Long trousers
• Shorts
• Socks
• Swimming trunks
• T-shirts
• Trainers

Toiletries

• Comb/Brush
• Soap/Shower Gel
• Flannel
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Towel
• Sun-block/Sun-screen
• Deodorant
• Insect Repellent

Personal Equipment

• Plate, dish & mug (unbreakable)
• Knife, fork & spoon
• Tea-towel
• Sleeping Bag (2 or 3 season)
• Camping Mat
• Coat Hanger (for your uniform)
• Personal First Aid Kit
• Torch (with spare batteries)
• Carrier bags (for dirty clothes)

For travelling to camp you will need the following items, so please make sure they do not go in your main kit bag:-

• Uniform
• Boots/Strong shoes

Take a small day sack containing:-

• Waterproof jacket
• Packed Lunch

Disclaimer: No responsibility for personal effects is accepted by the camp organisers and neither the Group nor the Scout Association provides insurance cover in respect of such items. We strongly advise against taking expensive items, such as mp3 players, cameras, etc.

Final Reminders for Summer Camp

I'd just like to recap on some key dates & times for those camping with us next week. We wouldn't want to leave anyone behind!

This Wednesday/Thursday, 22/23 July

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are meeting as normal. Cubs and Scouts do not need to wear uniform this week, as we're giving you chance to get it washed and ironed ready for Saturday.

This Friday, 24 July

You need to bring your main kit bag to the Scout Hut for 7pm so we can load it onto the van. Remember do not pack your uniform, your waterproof jacket, or your packed lunch. Dads, we'd appreciate your help to load the camping equipment.

This Saturday, 25 July

We aim to leave for camp from the Scout Hut at 10am prompt. Leaders will be at the Scout Hut from 9.30am. You must wear full uniform for the journey. Bring a waterproof jacket and a packed lunch in a small day bag - this will travel with you on the bus.

If you're taking any medicines these should be handed to Janice (Kim).

Travel sickness remedies, if required, normally need to be taken an hour or so before travelling.

Week Saturday, 1 August

We expect to get back from camp at approximately 4pm. We will try and get word back if we are running early or late.

Contact Information

During the camp you can contact us - in case of emergency only please - at Downe Scout Activity Centre, Birdhouse Lane, Downe, Orpington, Kent, BR6 7LJ. Tel: 01959 572121. Ask for the Duty Warden. He/she will get a message to us as soon as possible.

We will not contact you unless there is a problem, so if you don’t hear from us everything is fine.

We do not encourage the cubs and scouts to phone home during camp as it tends to make them homesick. Please do not ask them to call you.

Next Week

There will be a Cubs next Thursday as usual but you do not need to wear uniform as you will need it clean for Saturday. The same goes for Scouts.

Summer Camp - Reminders

A reminder for those going on Summer Camp that we need your signed Permission to Camp form this week, plus your Medicines Form if applicable.

Scouts wanting to take part in the rifle-shooting activity should also hand in the Parental Consent form this week.

And this is also the last week to pay in any pocket money that you want us to look after.

Summer Gala Update

With a couple more donations our final total is £679. As we are running more camps than ever, and more Cubs and Scouts are attending, we were in need of camping gear. Therefore, we have spent some of the gala money raised on buying 2 new tents and some cooking equipment. As Beavers won't get the benefit of this equipment until they are Cubs, we will be using some of the money to subsidise their Sleepover in September. Any money left will buy new games equipment.

If you want to see a breakdown of the money spent then you will be able to do so at our AGM in September. More details on that later....

Beavers Dates for the Diary

There will NOT be a Beavers meeting on Weds 29th July as Leaders will be camping with Cubs and Scouts. However, there will be meetings throughout the summer holiday period on every other week.

Saturday 5th September: Beavers are invited to a fun filled day of activity at the Wetlands Centre. 10am til 3pm. Cost £4.50. Further details to follow but I need to know asap if your child can go. Please tell me Wednesday, or text or mail as I need to book your place.

Saturday/Sunday 19/20th September: Beavers are invited to a sleepover with our friends from Darfield Beavers. This will be at Silverwood Scout Site and the cost will be approx. £5 Watch out for the invitation letters this week.

Sunny Day

Last week the cubs took advantage of the warm weather,
We split them into three teams to Battle it out in our water assault course challenge.

Click HERE to see photos of them in action

Beaver Sports Day Photos

You can see photos from the recent Beaver Sports Day by clicking here.

July Subs - Reminder

Just a quick reminder that July subs are due this week. It helps if we can get it over and done with in one go, so please pay on time. Thanks in advance.

Camp Meeting Reminder

Don't forget campers' parents that our meeting is to be held this coming Tuesday at 7pm in the Scout Hall. We have important information and forms for you so please make every effort to attend.

Beaver Dates for the Diary

We are hoping to hold a District Beaver Day Out at the Wetlands Centre on 5th September. I'll give you more details shortly. The cost will be £4.50.

Also, we will be having a Beaver Sleepover camp on the weekend of 19/20th September at Silverwood. We are joning up with our friends at Darfield for this one to make it extra special. Watch out for details coming soon.

Sports Day Update

A beautiful sunny afternoon saw Ben, Kezia, James B, Jackson and one of our newest recruits Chloe win second team place for Beavers. Each one got a Winners medal too. Jack, Jordan, Thomas, Ronan and Katie won individual medals, some more than one, for Cubs. (There wasn't a team placing for Cubs) Thank you very much to parents for bringing the children along to support the Group. We appreciate it.

Teatowels etc

Hello All,
I know I'm always on the cadge but has anyone got any teatowels, handtowels or cleaning products they could pass on to us please? Thanks,
Kim xx

Directions for this weekend's activities

If you're going to the Scout Athlete Badge on Sunday, the venue is the athletics track, behind the Station Inn on Station Road, Wombwell. Directions: follow the A633 from Stairfoot roundabout, heading towards Wombwell/Rotherham. At the next roundabout take the A633 (Wombwell Bypass) called Mitchell's Way. At the next roundabout turn left onto Station Road. The Station Inn is on your left after about 100metres.

If you're going to the Beaver and Cub Sports Day, the venue is the park at Broomhill. Directions are as above, but you go straight ahead at the Mitchell's Way/Station Road roundabout. As you approach the next roundabout, look for the left turn signposted Broomhill. Take this left (Everill Gate Lane) and follow the road into Broomhill. Once you are in Broomhill the main road makes a sharp right. Just on the apex of the bend take a left turn into Broomhill Lane. The park is just on your left.

Beaver and Cub Sports Day

Beavers and Cubs are invited to attend our District Sports Day to be held this coming Sunday 28 June at Broomhill. Please arrive at 1pm for an hour or two of fun and games. Wear trainers and your necker. The rest is up to you! You won't need any money but there may be a stall or two run by the others in the District. Bring a drink and depending on the weather, a sun hat and cream. Not sure what time it will finish but shouldn't be later than 3, so parents could you please hang around for this event. There is a pub on the corner I believe! Try to let me know by mail if you can make it so I have an idea of numbers. kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk

ps I apologise for this event being held at a separate venue to the Scouts. Hope this doesn't cause problems for any of you with children in different sections.

Scout Athlete Badge

This Sunday (28th June) Scouts from across Fitzwilliam District are invited to come along and take part in a series of track and field events for a chance to earn the Athlete Badge. The events will be 100m, 200m, 300m (girls), 400m (boys), 800m, 1500m, long jump, discus, shot put, and cricket ball throwing.

The aim is to achieve the minimum requirement in each event, which is adjusted for age, with your best three events counting to your final score. You don’t have to do every event, but you must enter at least three if you want to earn the badge. You can find out more on the Athlete Badge here.

The venue is the athletics track behind the Station Inn, off Station Road, Wombwell. Registration is from 1.30pm with events starting at 2.00pm. We expect to finish at approx 4.00pm.

Entry is free, but please bring plenty to drink and a light snack to keep you going. Uniform is not required - wear your sports gear and trainers.

How to Enter

Click on this link to register for the event. This will speed up registration on the day and give us an idea how many scouts are coming.

If you are reading a paper version of this notice, you will find an electronic copy on our group blog which you can find at the following address:

http://ardsleyscouts.blogspot.com/

Gala Outcome

We had a lovely day for the most part with only a slight shower here and there. The Crockery Smash was smashing! The Stocks were splashing! The Coconuts weren't shy! The cakes were scrumptious; the Afternoon Teas delightful; the Tombola (due to the quality of the donations) was busy, busy, busy; and the books flew off the tables too. The cards, toys and bric a brac were slower but helped by the Queen of Hearts game made a very tidy contribution to the end profits. (£133) The secret ingredient in the special cake was not guessed so we held a draw of all the contestants and the winner was Alice Hyde, who came back later to collect her prize cake.

We normally make about £350 from this summer event but due to your very generous donations, support and attendance on the day, and a lot of hard work from Leaders, Scouts and several parents and grandparents on the day, this year we made a staggering profit of..... £659.22. Yes, that's £659.22. Absolutely, gobsmackingly amazing!

So, a very huge thankyou from the Leaders and the children of our Group to you all for helping with your donations to raise this fantastic amount of money. And a very special thankyou from all of us must go to Julie, Jackie K, Jackie H, Rebecca, Richard, Helen and last but certainly not least, Maureen for their help on the day. Thank you.

We'll let you know what we spend the money on as soon as we can.

Summer Gala

Don’t forget to come along to our annual Summer Fair this Saturday (20th) for an afternoon of fun. Win a coconut on the Coconut Shy or even a bottle of wine to relax with later that evening, on the Bottle Hoopla. Or go Greek and smash some pots on the Crockery Smash! You might even get chance to throw a wet sponge or two. There are some games for the more genteel members of the family and a few stalls to browse around. When you need a break from all the fun why not relax in the “café” with a nice cup of tea and a homemade scone with jam and cream or if you prefer, coffee and a bun. We would love to see you all – and remember, every penny we make will be spent on the children in our Group. Hope to see you there!

PS. Don't forget to bring any last minute donations before Thursday 8:15 and also that we need cakes, buns and scones that you can drop off at the hall from 10am Saturday morning. Please let Kim know if you are doing that so she can get an idea of how many she has to make herself! We're still looking for old crockery too, so now's a good time to clear out your cupboards.

Crockery Smash

Does anyone have any crockery they want to get rid of?? If so, then please donate it to us! This week please!

cakes!!!!

Could I ask for any donations of cakes, buns, cookies and scones to be brought to the scout hall from 10am on Saturday please. Shop bought ones can be brought weds/thurs of course. Could you let me know when you see me or mail me please if you are donating so I have an idea of numbers.

summer gala surprise!

Unfortunately, although I promised one, we are unable to have a bouncy castle as the church is not insured and we do not want to spend any profits hiring a professional one. Therefore, we will be surprising you all on the day with our new idea! Please try to get your donations to us no later than Thursday 18th to give me time to sort them out.

beavers next week

I need a volunteer to help me with Beavers next week (17th) as Sara has a Governors meeting to attend. Could you please mail me asap if you are willing to help. Thanks
kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk

District Camp - Final Details

Scouts going on this weekend's District Camp should meet at Silverwood Scout Camp from 6.30pm on Friday. We're camping on the Ridge site which is on the right as you come through the gate.

Don't forget your Permission To Camp form, and remember you must arrive on site in uniform.

If you're not sure what to take you can download a Kit List from here.

Pick-up from Silverwood between 4pm and 4.30pm on the Sunday afternoon.

Silverwood is on the A628 between Dodworth and Silkstone. It's a left turn just after the bend.

Any problems, my mobile number is at the bottom of the permission-to-camp form.

It's not too late if you still want to go, but you do need to bring your £15 camp fee to Scouts tonight.

Summer Camp Meeting - 30th June

We will be holding a Summer Camp meeting for parents on Tuesday 30th June, starting at 7.00pm. We'll be taking you through the programme and covering subjects, such as, what equipment to take, medicines, pocket money, and so on. This is your main opportunity to ask any questions you have about the camp so please be sure to attend. If there's anything you wish to ask the leaders on a one-to-one basis we'll be happy to speak to you after the main meeting.

If you haven't already paid for Summer Camp can I remind you that the camp fee is due to be paid in full by the end of June.

June Subs - Reminder

If you didn't pay your June subs last week, can you please remember to do so this week. Many thanks.

District Camp - Reminder

Scouts wanting to go on this weekend's District Camp at Silverwood, who haven't already done so, need to bring their £15 camp fee to Scouts this week. So far we have 16 Scouts going. You can download a letter about the camp here. Permission to camp forms will be given out this week (or you can download one from here).

GALA UPDATE

Donations for the gala are continuing to come in so thank you to those of you who have donated already. Everyone else, please send any donations in this week if at all possible so that I can sort them out. Also, we want to have a refreshment stall and a cake stall so if you could send in any cakes, buns, cookies or scones we need them! I will be at the hall from 10am on gala day for you to drop them off but could you let me know if you will be donating so I have an idea of numbers. Thanks a lot,
Kim (drop me a mail at kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk please)

summer gala

Thank you so much for the donations we have had so far. This year we have a bouncy castle and crockery smash as well as other stalls and games. Could I ask you to send in any bottles of booze, boxes of biscuits or chocs, toiletries, bags of sweets, good quality books, unwanted gifts etc. We will also need lots of buns, cakes and scones. Please ask your grans, aunties and friends and work colleagues. All monies raised will be spent on your children.
This is our big fundraiser of the year - we need your donations! Please!

And please advertise the event to everyone you see.

Summer Gala

The Gala is only 4 weeks away so could I ask that if you are planning to send any donations for the event that you do so as soon as possible so that we can plan our stalls. See the earlier post for ideas. WE NEED YOU TO SEND DONATIONS! All money raised will be spent on your children. Thanks in eager anticipation.

Kim

ps thanks to all those who have already donated.

half term

Just to let you all know that Beavers, Cubs and Scouts will be meeting as usual next week even though it's half term. If you are on holiday then we hope you have a great time! And bring us back a stick of rock!!

Bear Grylls is the new Chief Scout

Bear Grylls has been announced as the tenth Chief Scout. Bear will help to continue building on Scouting’s success story by supporting those already involved in Scouting and encouraging more adults to volunteer their time.

When asked why he chose to volunteer for the UK’s largest youth movement, Bear said: ‘In short, because I love adventure and I love hanging out with good friends. For me this is what Scouting is about.’ He first got involved in Scouting aged eight as a Cub Scout. Bear attributes this time as part of the inspiration behind his adult adventures presenting TV shows such as Born Survivor: ‘So much of who we are as an adult is formed when we are kids,’ said Bear. ‘What Scouting says to young people is: “it’s okay to go for it in life”.’ See Bear Grylls on YouTube here

Born on 7 June 1974, Bear Grylls will be the youngest ever Chief Scout. The famous adventurer takes over when current Chief Scout, former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan, completes his five year tenure in July.

Last Call for Summer Camp

Just 70 days to go until our Summer Camp at the end of July!

If you haven't already signed up to go - and we know there are still a few of you thinking about it - it's time to make up your mind. We need to finalise numbers at the end of May so that we can start booking activities.

Just to remind you, this year we're camping at at Downe Scout Activity Centre nr Biggin Hill, Kent, from Saturday 25 July to Saturday 1 August 2009. The camp is open to all Cubs and Scouts. The cost of the camp is £195 per person. So far 35 cubs and scouts are going, and we only have a few spare places. The leaders are happy to answer any questions you may have about the camp.

If you would like to go you need to let us know in the next two weeks, otherwise I'm afraid it will be too late. The remaining places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Scouts - District Camp

This week Scouts were given letters about the forthcoming District Camp (12 - 14th June) at Silverwood. The theme of this year's camp is 'Back-to Basics' so there will be lots of traditional Scouting activities, such as backwoods cooking, bivouacing and pioneering.

If you would like to go (Scouts only) please return the reply slip and camp fee by the end of May. If you didn't get a letter you can download one from here.

Beaver Hike Update - It's cancelled!

Unfortunately the deadline for contacting me has passed, with only 2 replies. Therefore I have contacted the organisers to say Ardsley will NOT be attending the District hike.

more cub camp pics

http://gallery.me.com/richardjkeys#100024

beaver hike

The District Beaver Hike is this coming Sunday 17th. Please meet at Darfield library on Church Street at 11am wearing uniform and a coat. Bring a packed lunch as well. Collect kids at Darfield Church Hall at 2:30pm. Parents are welcome to tag along. PLEASE let me know by mail, text 07985660966 or tell me in person NO LATER than Weds 13th if your child is coming. Thanks
Kim

Cubs Weekend Camp

Apart from a brief, heavy shower the weather was lovely and we all had a great time. Cubs cooked their own bbq and kept the fire stoked with plenty of logs they sawed themselves. We had a sing song round the fire when it was dark after a great time playing in the woods. Look out for a link to more pictures coming soon. We can't wait for Summer Camp now!

contacting Kim

If you wish to email me please use the kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk address as I will be certain to pick this up. Some people are using other addresses that I rarely look at as I don't use them anymore and therefore I have not replied. If you want to phone me then just ask for a business card as all my contact details are on them. Thanks a lot.
Kim

Cub Camp Reminder

Just a quick reminder Cubs need to be at Silverwood for 11am Sat 9th and require picking up at 1pm Sunday 10th.

DON'T FORGET YOUR PACKED LUNCH !

Silverwood Campsite is on the A628 between Dodworth and Silkstone. It's a left turn just after the bend.

summer gala

The Summer Gala will he held on Sat 20th June. If you have any good quality books or bric a brac, toiletries, bottles of booze or pop, chocolates, biscuits etc to donate we would be most grateful. ALL money made will be spent on the children of the Group to enhance their Scouting experience. Thanks in eager anticipation. Kim

May Subs are due this week

Can I remind everyone that May subs are due this week. Please pay on time - it makes life much easier for the Leaders. Thanks in advance.

Scout Camp - Great Towers

Scouts spent the weekend at Great Towers camp site in the Lake District. We went up on the Friday night, arriving with just enough daylight left to put the tents up and have some supper. On the Saturday we took a couple of dragon boats out on Lake Windermere and chased each other around the lake with the occasional water fight thrown in for good measure. On Sunday we did a bit of rock climbing then headed into Bowness for the afternoon. By Monday the weather had turned and we packed up in a steady drizzle. Still a good time was had by all, and we're already looking forward to our next camp which is the District Camp in June. We do have a few photos which we'll pop on the blog shortly.

Note to parents: Can you please ask Scouts to check themselves for ticks - I've heard from one Scout who has discovered a tick since returning. You can find advice on tick removal here.

Scout Hut Clear-up

Thanks to all the Scouts who helped on Saturday morning clearing up round the back of the Scout Hut. We cleared back the thorns and shifted several barrowfuls of dead leaves and mulch from the gutters. It looks much better now, and should help to cure the damp problem. We'll be having another session in the next few weeks to do the vicarage side of the hut. Scouts who contribute a total of six hours to the clear-up effort will gain the Community Challenge badge.

The new heaters, which were purchased with the aid of a grant from the South Yorkshire Community Fund, have now arrived, and we'll be installing them in the next few weeks.

PARADE REPORT

A very big thankyou to all the children and parents who turned up for the parade at Hoyland Common to represent Ardsley in the annual St Georges Day celebration. The sun shone and the wind blew helping to make the flags fly. There was plenty of singing and several performances in church as well, helping to make the day special. The brass band also did us proud during the marching. So, thanks a lot. Those of you who had other, more important?, things to do missed a grand afternoon. Special thanks to Thomas L for carrying the Beaver flag, Niall for the Cubs and Thomas C for Scouts. You all did a great job and made us proud! See Kim next week for a thankyou present.

St. George's Day Parade

Each year Scout groups across the world get together to mark St. George’s Day. (St. George is the Patron Saint of Scouting as well as all his other jobs.) In our District, each Group takes it in turn to host a St George’s Day parade around their village. This year it’s Hoyland Common’s turn.

We would like all Beavers, Cubs & Scouts to join us this Sunday (26 April) to mark St. George’s Day. We will be meeting at Fitzwilliam Street at 1pm, and parading to St Peter’s Church at Kirk Balk. After a short church service we will parade back to Fitzwilliam Street. We expect to be finished by 3.30pm. Please wear full uniform.

Directions: Travelling from Birdwell to Hoyland Common, go straight ahead at the Allotts Corner traffic lights. Fitzwilliam Street is second on the left.

SUBS

If you have not already done so, please make sure you have paid your APRIL subs this week as they should have been paid on the 1st or 2nd of April. MAY subs are due to be paid NO LATER THAN 6th and 7th May. Please put £8.20 in the Subs box in a named envelope with your subs card. Thanks.

Cub Camp

Please let Kim or Akela have your completed Permission to Camp forms asap and the £10. We haven't heard from a few of you so please remember to text, phone or mail Kim to let me know if you are going or not.

St Georges Day

Sunday April 26th will be our annual St Georges Day Parade. Details to follow but please try to put it in your diary as we would like to see most, if not all, of our members turn up. It's usually around 2 to 4 pm and is Hoyland way. We will post final details later in the week when we have them.

Happy Easter!

We would like to wish all our members and their families a Very Happy Easter! Don't forget we are open as usual.

Love Ian, Kim, Akela, Rich, Ed, John, Steve, Lauren, Sara and our newest recruit Charlotte.
xx

Scout Camp: 1 - 4 May

After the success of our long weekend camp at Silverwood, the Scouts next adventure will be to Great Towers, situated in the Lake District, near Bowness-on-Windermere. It’s an excellent camp site which we’ve visited many times over the years, and we’re really looking forward to it!

The camp will take place from Friday 1st May (leaving early evening) to Monday 4th May 2009 and will cost £50 per person. Numbers are limited due to transport, so places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

If you would like to go, please download the letter and return the reply slip with a £10 deposit as soon as possible.

Permission to Camp forms will be sent out 22 April. You can download a kit list from here.

Between them our Scouts have accumulated a total of 483 nights away. We've added a league table to the blog sidebar, which is currently lead by James with 55 nights away.

Silverwood Camp-a few photos!

bivouacing

hobo-b-q!!

Silverwood Camp Report

Eleven scouts took part in this weekend's camp at Silverwood. We arrived on site at 7pm Friday evening and got the tents up before enjoying a supper of fajitas around the camp fire. On the Saturday the scouts set to building a bivouac in the woods, and, much to the leaders' surprise, they actually followed through and spent the night in it! We also made a hobo-b-cue out of an abandoned supermarket trolley and used it to cook lamb kebabs. On Sunday we had a go at flying a radio-controlled helicopter - alas it crash landed and broke, so we had a game of softball instead. That evening the scouts made a fantastic chilli and then amazed the leaders by clearing up afterwards. On Sunday morning, in between packing up, we had a game of volleyball. The weather stayed kind to us, so all-in-all a great weekend.

As a result of this weekend's camp, Thomas and Sam have both passed 35 nights away, while Emily has reached 5 nights away, which earns them a badge.

Our next adventure is a camp in the Lake District from 1 - 4 May, when we'll be going to Great Towers campsite near Bowness-on-Windermere. Letters will be going out this week with more details.

Spring is Here!

We took advantage of the lovely weather to

go into the woods on a scavenger hunt looking

for signs of Spring.

Spot the blossom!

Hi ho! Hi ho! It's down the woods we go!

cub camp in May

Letters will be going out this Thursday for the camp. I need you to return the reply slip no later than Thursday 9 April. If you are/will be on holiday you can email me on kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk to let me know you want a place. Money will be collected nearer the time with the permission to camp forms. I will give a kit list for the weekend to those I know will be going in a couple of weeks.

First Aid

Just to let you all know that several Leaders did a refresher first aid course last Saturday so all Leaders are now ok to put a plaster on!

Subs - Reminder

April subs are due this week. This is the start of a new subs year, so we will be giving out new subs cards.

Please hand in your old subs card. If you've missed any payments, or if there are any gaps on your card where you believe you've paid, please speak to a leader at the end of your section meeting.

Subs are due at the first meeting each month. Please pay on time - it gets it all over with in one go, allowing the leaders to concentrate on delivering the programme.

Not to be outdone.......

Cubs will be having a sleepover camp on 9th/10th May at Silverwood. Please make a note in your diary and watch out for the formal invite coming your way shortly. That goes for anyone not called Shortly too! It will cost £10 approx. so well within pocket money range - or maybe Cubs could do a few jobs around the house to earn it??

Beaver news

Thanks to everyone who turned up tonight for the campfire. All but 2 of our Beavers attended and had a great time singing and doing actions, eating hotdogs and buns. We are as normal next week and will be running as normal throughout the Easter school holidays. I will be shorthanded on 8th April so could do with a volunteer or two to give me a hand with the fun! Hopefully we will be making chocolate nests!

Scout Camp: 3 - 6 April

The lighter nights and nice weather are back with us, which means it's officially the start of the camping season!

To start things off we're running a weekend camp for Scouts from Friday 3 - Monday 6 April at Silverwood. We'll be meeting up at Silverwood at 7pm on the Friday night and pitching the tents. Pick up will be at 3pm on Monday afternoon. The camp fee is £20.

Permission to Camp forms will be given out at Scouts this week, alternatively you can download one from here. You can download a kit list from here.

If you would like to go we need your completed permission to camp form and your £20 camp fee by Wednesday 1st April.

Can I also take this opportunity to mention two more camps that are coming up in the next few weeks for Scouts:-

Over the May Day weekend, 1 - 4 May, we're planning another long-weekend camp which will either be in the Lake District or the North Yorkshire Moors. The cost will be around £50. We're still working out the details, and will get more information out as soon as we can.

Over the weekend of 13/14 June Scouts will be taking part in the Fitzwilliam District Camp, which will also incorporate a Cooking Competition and a First Aid Competition. (Scouts are notoriously accident prone when cooking!)

Which takes us nicely up to our Summer Camp at the end of July!

Reminder to Beavers!

Don't forget we are going to Wombwell for the campfire this coming Wednesday. See the previous posts for directions and details.

Kim and Sara

Curry Night - Thanks

Can we just say a big 'thank you' to everyone who came to our Curry Night, to the Scouts who helped out on the day who did a great job, and to the people who donated raffle prizes. The event raised £143, which is fantastic. We're already thinking about our next culinary extravaganza so watch this space!

Here the scouts are busy preparing the meal:

Mother's Day Parade

A reminder that this Sunday (22 March) it's our Mothers' Day Family Service & Church Parade. We'll be meeting at 10.15am on Sunday morning, and expect to finish around 11.45am. All Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are expected to attend.

Grant award brings warmer nights

I'm pleased to say we have been awarded a Grassroots Grant of £675 towards the cost of some new heaters for the Scout Hut. The grant is part of the £50,000 Cash Giveaway programme run by the South Yorkshire Community Foundation and the Barnsley Chronicle.

If you've been in the Scout Hut over winter, you'll know that it's not exactly warm! That's because the storage heaters we have at the minute are proving too expensive to run. Over the next few weeks we'll be replacing them with more efficient electric heaters.

We're all looking forward to warmer nights ahead and we're very grateful to SYCF and the Barnsley Chronicle for their support.

Cyclo-cross Champions!

An excellent result for Ardsley at this year's District Cyclo-cross competition. Cubs won first, second, and third place in their race to secure an overall victory, and we also came first in the Scouts race.

Representing Cubs were Beth, Chris, Lewis, Thomas, and Ronan. Thomas raced home first, closely followed by Beth and Chris. The Cubs team had the best overall placings so were awarded the team trophy, which we get to keep for a year.

Racing for Scouts we had Ewan, Emily, Caitlin, James, Thomas, and Louis. James secured first place despite some strong competition, but alas Hoyland won the team trophy.

Well done to everyone who took part.

Directions to wombwell scout hut

Wombwell scout hut is located halfway along Wainwright place on your left down a little sniket / ginal / alleyway (which ever you prefer to use).

Click here to view a map of how to get to Wainwright Place

Scouts - Wide Game

Just a reminder that Scouts will be doing a wide game tonight, so there's no need to come in uniform. We'll be heading up to Horsecarr Wood straight after flagbreak, so if you're late you can catch up with us there.

DISTRICT BEAVER CAMPFIRE

On Weds 25 March, Beavers will be held at Wombwell Scout HQ as it is the campfire event. Please meet there at 6pm and collect at 7.30. Wear uniform but bring a coat in case we get outdoors. Light refreshments will be given. Parents are welcome to stay but must join in the singing and actions! Watch this space for directions.

Curry Night

You should have recieved a letter informing you about the Curry Night we'll be hosting on Saturday 21st of March.

Apologies to Beaver parents, we didn't quite get the letters ready for last weeks meeting.

If you'd like to attend, please fill in and return the form as soon as possible.

You can download a copy of the form by clicking here.

District Cyclocross - Sunday 15 March

Next Sunday, 15 March, it's the Fitzwilliam District Cyclo-cross event at Silverwood Campsite. We're hoping for a good turnout from our Cub and Scout sections. You never know - we might pick up a trophy or two!

If you'd like to go, you'll need a bike. Obviously. And bear in mind it's a cross-country race so really it needs to be a mountain/bmx-type bike. You'll also need a cycle helmet. This is a must, you will not be allowed to race without a helmet.

Expect to get dirty - especially if it's been wet. We suggest you take either a change of clothes, or some covers for your car seats!

Registration is at 12.15; the actual racing starts at about 1pm, after a walk round the course. The event normally finishes around 3.30pm. Tea & coffee is usually on hand for the adults.

Silverwood Campsite is on the A628 between Dodworth and Silkstone. It's a left turn just after the bend.

Help Required at Beavers

I will be shorthanded next week on 4 March at Beavers. Could I ask parents if anyone would be able to help out please. If yes, then let Kim know by emailing to kim@ardsleyscouts.org.uk asap.

Beavers District Campfire

Please meet at Wombwell Scout Hall at 6pm. Parents are welcome to join in the fun or collect their children at 7.30. This event to take place on Wednesday 25 March. Wear uniform please.

Mothers Day Parade

We will be having a Church Parade on March 22nd. This is a family service. Usual times and details.

Date for Your Diary

We will be holding a Beaver Sleepover weekend on 19th/20th September with our friends at Darfield. Just make a note in your diary for now.

Beaver Quiz

Thanks to everyone who turned up. We didn't win but didn't come last either. We had general knowledge questions, picture questions, musical scores to identify and feely bags. Oh, and don't forget the pancakes!

Church Parade - Thanks

Can I just say a big thankyou to everyone who came to the Church Parade this Sunday for helping to make Roger's last service so special. It was great to see so many of you there.

Beaver Quiz - Directions

The Beaver Quiz (tomorrow evening) is being held at Hoyland Scout Hut, which is on Market Street. See previous post for further details, times, etc.

The quickest way, from Ardsley, is via Blacker Hill. From Stairfoot roundabout, head up Hunningley Lane (B6100), towards Worsborough. As you head down into Worsborough Dale, at the crossroads, take a left turn onto Station Road. Keep on Station Road which narrows and twists as it dips into the valley, and rises the other side through the wood. Eventually you will arrive at a T-junction. Turn right onto Wentworth Road. Keep following Wentworth Road for approximately 1 mile, through the woods and Blacker Hill, eventually arriving at a T-junction. Turn right onto Wombwell Road (B6096), past the ambulance station on the left. Market Street is the second turning on the left.

The Scout Hut is set back from the road about 1/3rd of the way along Market Street on the right-hand side. It is approximately opposite the Greenside Lane turning on the left. If you get as far as the garage you've past it.

Here's a Google Maps link.

beaver quiz event

Looks like we might have a good turnout of Beavers for this event. Please meet at Hoyland Scout Hall for 6pm on Tuesday (24th) and collect Beavers at 7:30. Wear uniform please. No money needed. If you need directions watch the blog tomorrow as I'll get Ian to write directions.

Church Parade this Sunday

A reminder that there is a church parade this Sunday. We'll be meeting at the Scout Hut from 10.00am, and expect to finish at approximately 11.45am. This is a special service to mark the retirement of our Vicar, Roger Evans, so we'd like a good turn out from Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Parents are very welcome to stay for the service, which starts at 10.30am.

Dome/Sleepover – Saturday 21 February

This Saturday the Scouts are going swimming and ice-skating at Doncaster Dome. We’ll be catching the X19 bus, so you need to be at the Scout Hut for 9.00am. If you miss the bus, too bad!

Later on Saturday we’ll be returning to the Scout Hut for a Sleepover. This will be followed by the Church Parade on the Sunday morning, which is part of the deal: No church parade, No Dome!

Pick up from the Scout Hut at approximately 11.45am on the Sunday morning.

You will need:

1) A day bag with your swimming gear and a packed lunch (make it a good one – the next meal will be pizzas at about 8pm). Wear casual clothes. If you have a bus pass bring it with you, just in case.

2) Bring your sleeping bag and your uniform (preferably on a hanger!) separately; you will be leaving these in the Scout Hut.

Permission-to-Camp forms will be given out at Scouts tonight. You need to bring this with you on the Saturday morning along with £12 to cover costs.

If you can’t make it to the Dome, you can still come to the Sleepover and Church Parade. We should be back at the Scout Hut by 7pm.

Beaver Farm Trip Photos

Sorry it has taken longer than expected, but I've now uploaded my photos from the Beaver's Cannon Hall farm trip.

You can view them by clicking here.

A Mint Day Out!

“A Mint Day Out!” as one Beaver put it.

As the song goes… Oh, What a Perfect Day! Beavers met up bright and early for a smashing visit to the farm. We fed pigs, goats and sheep, llamas and donkeys to name a few and had lots of giggling as the animals licked the food off our hands. We even got to see a lamb being born. Amazing! When asked how we could tell it was a boy lamb one of the Beavers piped up “because it’s got short hair!”

We played in the adventure playground and on the zipwire for ages and had hot chocolate in the café. After our packed lunches we went back round the farm to check on the newborns and another go in the playground before strolling down through the snowy parkland to the frozen river. We fed the ducks and geese with bread and then played in the snow for ages before heading back to the shop with just enough time for ice cream before parents arrived.

I’ve ordered the Explore badges so should be able to hand those out at Beavers this week as well as investing some of the children.

Kim and Sara (with help from Ed, Ethan, Rich and Ian)

p.s. Photo's will be posted soon!

Scout Sleepover - 21 February

There will be a Sleepover for Scouts only on February 21. We'll be meeting at 9am on Saturday morning and catching the bus over to Doncaster Dome for a day of skating and swimming, before heading back to the Scout hut for a sleepover. Watch out for more details this week.

Cubs Meeting - 5th Feb 2009 - Cancelled

Due to weather conditions, there will be no Cubs tonight (5th Feb).

Should you know of anyone without access to the blog, could you please pass along the message.

Sorry for the inconvenience, Cubs will be running as normal next week.

Best Regards,

All the leaders.

Cubs Handicrafts Event

Cubs are invited to represent Ardsley in this event. It's on Saturday 28th Feb at Hoyland Scout HQ. Starts at 10 and ends at 12-30. Could each child bring a cereal box please? Watch for the letter home with further details.
Kim

Beavers District Quiz Night

Beavers will be heading over to Hoyland Scout Hall to take part in the quiz on Tuesday 24th February at 6pm. I've heard there may be pancakes to eat - if we are lucky! We will still be holding our own Beaver meeting on the 25th but hope you can make it to the quiz to represent Ardsley.

Kim

Chinese New Year

Beavers have been busy in small groups cooking stir fry with rice and noodles - and a very fine job they made of it too with help from Ed and Ethan. They chopped and stirred all by themselves and were very proud of their achievements.

Cubs also made their own stirfries last week and also did a good job. It made a break from our Map Readers badge activities. So far we have learned about grid references and map symbols. This week we will start making our contour models so bring any clean cardboard along with you. We will also be playing Find the Duck! in the next week or so.

Kim

CANNON HALL FARM VISIT

Beavers are going on a trip to Cannon Hall Farm on Sat 7th Feb in order to get their Explore activity badge. Meet at the bottom car park at 10am and pick up at 3pm. Cost is £5,which includes a bag of feed for the animals and an ice cream, plus entrance to the farm. Money to Kim please. Parents are very welcome to come too at a cost of £3.75. It will cost you £2.50 to park. Wear suitable clothing for the weather and for being in large parkland and farm - Beavers and Leaders please wear neckers for easy identification of both children and adults. Kim

Church Parade - 22 February

Can you please make a diary note about a special Church Parade which is being held on Sunday 22 February to mark the retirement of our vicar, Roger Evans. It would be great to have all the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts there to mark this special ocassion, so we hope you will all make every effort to attend.

Scout Sleepover - 23 January

Tomorrow night (Friday) we're running a sleepover in the Scout Hut for Scouts only from 6.30pm. We'll be running a games competition, followed by pizza & a movie. On Saturday morning we'll be going up to the Metrodome for a swim, then back to the scout hut, finishing at 3.00pm. The cost is £12 inc food and admission to the Metrodome.

You'll need your sleeping bag, washing kit, and swimwear & towel. No uniform, no penknives.

Please bring your £12 and Permission to Camp form on the night. I will have a few spare forms with me, so if you've lost yours ask your parent to pop in and sign one.