test news - Ormskirk District Scouts
Transcription
test news - Ormskirk District Scouts
NEWSLETTER FEB 2012 MOONLIGHT REPORT WITHIN DISTRICT SHOOTING TEAM FOCUS AN UP DATE ON THE DISTRICT HQ 1 S T N E T CON 3 DC Report 5 District H Q Update 6 Adult Training 7 Beavers 8 Cubs 9 Scouts 10 SASU 11 Media Section 13 Rainbow House 17 Sea Kayaking 14 Shooting Team Focus 18 Moonlight Report 20 Snapped Event Photos 21 Project Peru 22 Archery Team Flyer 23 Shooting Team Flyer 24 Founders Feast Flyer 25 Family Camp Flyer 26 Family Camp Application Form 27 And Finally 2 THE DC’S REPORT What a good start to the year with all the talk being on the Duchess becoming a volunteer in Scouting. Flexible volunteering is something we should be offering when looking for volunteers. Every minute offered to Scouting is worth something. We shouldn’t be refusing people if they cant give the time you want, if they cant make it ever week, if they cant commit to uniform, if they cant do weekend events. It has to be down to the time they can give to Scouting. Not everyone will be totally committed to Scouting as most of us are, but they do have something to offer in their own little way which we have to learn to accept, however small that may be. Thanks to everyone who attended the leaders meeting. There was a great turnout and a real sense of enthusiasm. I hope you all got something from the night and went home ready for action. Thanks to Ash for pulling it all together and to all who put on displays on the night. Well done and thanks to Claire Duncan who made a very kind donation of £105 to the HQ fund. I don’t know how Claire had raised the money but enough was raised to buy an Explorer flag and then had surplus to donate to District. Fantastic effort Claire. You should have all completed your census submission and be thinking of sending your cheque to our treasurer John. Don’t forget their will be 50p added to each person if there is a delay in payment. If any groups do have a real problem we need to know asap. Well done to everyone involved in Moonlight 2012. Over 500 people involved in another successful event and from what I have heard no major incidents. Thanks to Chris Phillips and his team and all those who turned out on the day to help out. Apparently we even had some SASU members from Lonsdale and Wigan helping out with food. Trophies where won by Explorers from Kirkham & Wesham, and Scouts from Eccleston. We will need to try harder for next year. Well done everyone. Expired CRB’s It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure they have a current CRB. It has been brought to our attention that quite a few CRB’s had expired a few years ago and that adults are going on camps and activities without a CRB. This is not acceptable. Please find your official piece of paper and check the date. CRB’s need to be renewed at least 6 weeks before the expiry date by filling in the CRB renewal form and getting it back to Jo Nevill. Sleep Week 23/3/12 to 31/3/12 Rainbow House in Mawdesley is a school for disabled children which is totally reliant on charitable giving. They are holding a Sleep Week which is a great idea and something that groups may like to get involved in. The flyer in this edition is aimed at individuals and families but why not do something with your group. What about an Easter Pyjama Party or sleeping somewhere unusual and raise some money for a worth while cause. 3 County Project Peru You can find more info in this newsletter on how to apply for a Project Peru pack and a badge or click and visit www.projectperu2012.westlancashirescouts.org.uk It’s a great resource for Global Challenges and will introduce Peru to Scouts. District Explorer Scout Commissioner Watch this space !! Big Adventure Family Camp 13th to 15th July Scarisbrick Guide Camp Apologies for the mix up in dates. Please circulate this date to everyone. It’s a great weekend for our families, and doesn’t necessarily involve leaders, though we will be grateful of any help. New Enquiries Secretary District is looking for someone who can look after all our new enquires, liaising with them and placing them into groups. This will need to be someone who can work a computer as all enquiries come through online. Development Officer As a District there is so much we could be doing. We are missing so many opportunities. We need someone who will look at new projects for the District and work with County to make the most of these opportunities. Dates for the diary Appointments committee Jan 30th Safeguarding Feb 6th Family Camp July 13th 14th 15th TOO O BUSY T TEER? VOLUN . think again.. Sue scouts.org.uk/ thinkagain 0845 300 1818 Copyright © 2011 The Scout Association, Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland). 4 District H.Q. Update We have applied to extend the current planning permission as this adds value to the land, present value about £15 / 25000, had this been done by the architects it would have cost a further £4000 plus and we have managed to do it ourselves for under £200. However we have had to have a Bat and Historical Report done as these had not been included in the original application. A The proposal was to remove the asbestos roof and replace with a modern insulated one, renovate the inside and outside cladding. Demolish the small attached units and concentrate everything in the Hall and backstage area, updating all electrical and heating systems. Clean up the surrounding areas and provide adequate parking facilities. We have had two independent building firms look at this and report back to us. Good Points 1. Could be done during the long summer break minimising disruption to Scouting. 2. It would be done on the existing footprint with minimal input by the Local Authority. Bad Points 1. We may still have to comply with some of the stipulations of the original planning permission, The Archaeological report £3500 Bat survey £250+ and conservation precaution (£ endless). 2. We will still have all the problems that this site inherits in years to come. 3. Considerable upheaval in the moving of every bodies property out of the buildings and into store, before any work can commence and then return it after completion. The cost of this fix would be in the region of £120.000 plus a vat element. B The proposal to sell or swap the Lathom site for a new one completely and build a modern economic building in a conveniently central location in the demographic centre of our district. We could either go it alone ( very expensive ) or join with a kindred organisation and reduce by half the costs. We are in discussions with a developer at the moment and an interested partner. Good Points 1. All the advantages of a new build, clean, simple and quick and would last longer. Cost approx £125.000 or £275.000. plus minimal VAT 2. We would still be able to use the old building whilst new one built. 3. If we should join with another group it would tick all the LA boxes and mean an even quicker conclusion and much lower costs to us. 4. It would be simpler to raise funds and cheaper to run. Especially if we join in with another body. 5. More convenient site near to a bus stop and on a main road. Bad Points 1. We would have to go through the planning process all over again. 2. We would lose the entire Lathom site via exchange or sale. 3. It would take a little longer to complete. We now have two paths open to us and I can see the advantage in following both for a little longer until all of the relevant facts and costs are available to assist us in MAKING a final decision on which way to go. Obviously the deciding factor will be the best plan for the District organisation with minimum costs in build and general running expenses and also the best foundation we can leave for those who will follow in our footsteps in the future. In the meantime you may wish to consider in your own minds what you would envisage to be the best possible answer to our dream of a new HQ. Remember what we do today will directly affect those who follow us in the future, so we are not looking for a quick fix but one that should last a very long time indeed. We now have the costs under control so it’s up to us to make the right decision. Should you have any views on these two proposals please email me at colinprescott2@hotmail.com Colin Prescott. 5 Thank you to all who have booked on training courses this month. The next Safeguard Awareness course is on Monday 6th February. If you need to redo the course or you have any new Leaders who need to attend please email me for a booking form. There are still places on the First Aid courses 4th / 5th February. This is your chance to do / renew your certificate. Please email me as soon as possible to book. Well Done Congratulations to Jo Treasure, Paul Hipwell and Helen Randal, all of whom have got either their first or second set of woodbeads this month. If you have attended any training course in the last 12 months and have not had those modules validated, please contact your training adviser as soon as possible to arrange validation. If you are not sure who your training adviser †is please email me and I will tell you. As always if you have any queries regarding training you know where I am. Chris Charlton Local Training Manager chrischarlton@lineone.net 6 Apologies for missing the last newsletter and a belated happy New Year to you all. Beaver District Carol Service: Thursday 1st December Thank you to all those beavers and parents who braved the wet weather to attend our carol service, hosted by the 42nd. It was nice to see so many beavers together to celebrate the start of advent in the packed church of St Paul’s. A big thank you to the beavers of the 42nd, Sue, Linda and Steve for organising the evening and getting everybody in the Christmas spirit. Chief Scouts Bronze Awards: I had the pleasure of presenting 5 beavers at the 4th (Parbold) and 4 beavers at the 53rd (Appley Bridge) with their Chief Scouts bronze badges just before Christmas. Another 4 beavers at the 29th (Burscough) were also presented with their badges in January. Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you to the leaders for all the hard work involved to enable these beavers to earn the badge. Pantomime: Saturday 28th January Hope you all enjoy the forthcoming pantomime with an estimated 70 beavers from 6 colonies attending– Thanks to Jean and Ann for organising – report next month. Beaver Climbing Wall Fun Day: Saturday 17th March Due to the success of last year’s event, we are again holding a climbing wall fun day. Once again the District climbing team will be planning the day. Due to the success last year, we expect that the places will be filled very quickly. Forms will be available before half term, so get your applications in quickly. District Sleepover: Saturday 28th April We will be holding a district beaver sleepover at Parbold scout hut. We will arranging a meeting for leaders who are willing to get involved in the planning of the event. Anybody wishing to get experience towards their night’s away permit should consider attending this meeting (Likely to be in February, after half term) District Caving Day: Our district caving day for beavers has been booked for Saturday 12th May. Places will be limited, so note the date. Jim and your District Team – Ann, Jean, Sue and Michelle. 7 Cub Scout Section A very belated Happy New Year to everyone, hope you had a good one and you’re all ready for another busy year of Cub scouting. It seems ages ago now since the carol service, but on behalf of the Women’s Refuge and West Lancs Food Bank, Steve and Linda would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated toys and tins. There was a good turn out at the Whole District Meeting in January, it was a great opportunity to get information re adventurous activities. Following our sectional meeting in November, Linda had a word with the caving team and booked a trip to Ingleton for leaders, on the 10th March, with a view to taking Cubs at some point. Should be an interesting day out... 5 A-Side Football, Skelmersdale Sports Centre, 9am for a 10am start – 2pm, 4th February Information was e mailed out and everyone should have let Steve Swainson know by now, the cut off date was the 27th January. There are two categories under 9 on the day (9th birthday needs to fall after the 5th August 2011) and 9 - 10 on the day. Cub’s whose 10th birthday falls before the 5th August 2012, are too old to play in the competition. Please, please stick to the age rules…. £12 per team. Report next month. District Chess, HQ, 25th February Chris will be in touch with everyone, re times, cost etc. Dungeons and Dragons 24th March This is a linking event for older Beavers and younger Cubs 8 to 9yrs. More info to follow. County Camp/Giant Sleepover,Waddecar, 15th – 17th June The theme is Snaggle Olympics. Not sure of our base yet, our 1st choice was ‘Gold Medal Record Breakers’ and 2nd choice ‘Team B-P’, we should know a bit more after the County meeting. County costs £18 per Cub, £9 per adult with 1 adult to 5 Cubs free. There will be an additional cost from District (coach, central cooking) once the budget has been worked out. Entries for the badge competition are to be in by the end of February. We may have to have a short camp meeting for those groups going to the County camp, before March. Next Leaders Meeting – March. H.Q., 8.30pm 5th Steve, Linda, Chris, Paul, Anne and Shirley 8 Moonlight 2012 By the time you are reading this Moonlight will have come and gone, all the trophies will have been handed out and all the muddy boots and clothes will have been cleaned off (I hope that the muck didn’t clog up anyone’s washing machine) I hope that all went well and would like to thank everyone on the organising team for all the hard work that they put in to make this event so enjoyable for all that take part. Chief Scout Gold Presentation Is being hosted by our district on the 9th Feb at the new college building by the Asda in Skelmersdale, we would like to congratulate all the scouts who are receiving the award especially those from our district, we would also like to thank all the leaders for all the hard work they put in to helping the scouts gain this prestigious award and that they keep working with more scouts to further themselves in the scouting movement. PL’s Weekend 16 -18 March Don’t forget to get your applications in on time the closing date is 12th Feb and will be strictly adhered to Bowlander Training The training for Bowlander has already begun, Dave Delaney is co-ordinating this if you have any queries about this please contact Dave as he knows more about this than most of us do, the actual event is on the w/e 23 – 25 March St George’s day parade Will take place on the 22nd April the usual place and time will apply County Rally According to the diary we were given at the recent district meeting the camp is on the 11th – 13th May so keep an eye open for any information as it will come round sooner than you think Go Alpine I would just like to mention that there will be 10 scouts 3 young leaders and 3 adult leaders from our district going on this international trip which is being run by county and will include scouts and leaders from other districts The next leader’s meeting will be held on the 22nd of February at 7.30pm 9 FELLOWSHIP SASU FEBRUARY 2012 A good start to 2012 with a very well supported New Year Get together on Jan11th. We had comments on events held since our last indoor meeting in November plus letters & good wishes to all from Laurie Pears our old friend from Westcliffe on Sea as well as an update on all their family’s adventures from Dick & Helen Griffiths. As mentioned in previous meetings, from the 1st of January we no longer have our own separate bank account and all our monies are now controlled by the District Treasurer. Thankfully our own ex. Treasurer Roy, balanced the books for me and completed the dreaded spread sheets so during the evening we handed everything over to John A. complete with a cheque for £864 16p. and our District Fellowship account is now closed. Thanks again to Roy who is also completing the Fellowship census for us this year. Following a lively discussion we completed the Waddecar Strategic Plan Consultation Document which will probably result in us all being banished from Scouting!! and then Carol Flav. brought us up to date with a report from the exec. meeting. Thanks again also to Carol who has been quite poorly over the last few weeks but still managed to produce an excellent set of minutes from our last meeting. Dates for your diaries Moonlight Saturday January 21st. 4 members supporting this event. Report next month. Wednesday February 8th. Fellowship Meal Out at The Hopvine Burscough. 7.00.for 7.30.pm. I’ve booked for 21 as requested and I’ll be in touch re menus. Wednesday March 14th. Garry’s 10 pin bowling at Southport Sue B. organising again for us . Names were taken at our meeting so contact Sue if you would like to join us on suebeeley@hotmail.com Saturday March 24th. District Dungeons & Dragons at Bispham Hall No info up to press on this event between Beavers and Cubs No Meeting on Wednesday April 11th. Easter… St. George’s Day Rehearsal & Parade on 21st & 22nd April Wednesday May 9th, Fellowship Yearly Review (AKA AGM.) at “Shakelady Hey” Please note change of venue as Pat & Peter Sewell have invited us for a Spring BBQ Saturday May 12th. District Cub Skills at Rufford Info to Follow That’s all for this month with lots more to come later in the year Hope to see you at the Hop Vine Regards Ann & The Team Carol F., Eric, Helen and John. 10 Media Section Ormskirk Media Update… Hi All Why Media? The 3 main reasons Lots of links and press releases issued this month so click on them and have a look 1. Advocacy - We want civicLord leaders, Entrepreneurial Scout get £1000 boost from Wadeschools, youth groups, community groups, and the general public to understand out values and Press Release and images at;the work we do and how this fits a modern society. 2. Time – As an organization we need people s time to help us grow http://gallery.westlancashirescouts.org.uk/Press-Releases/Scout-Entrepreneur-Challenge and offer Scouting to more young people. This is achieved by promoting advocacy our movement. Gail Stanley president of West Lancsfor Scouts 3. Money – As a charity we depend on grants and donations if people http://audioboo.fm/boos/623899-gail-stanley-on-her-appointment-as-president-of-west-lancashireunderstand the work we do they are more likely to support our scouts organization. ! 500 Scouts take part in Operation Moonlinght 2012 http://gallery.westlancashirescouts.org.uk/Press-Releases/Operation-Moonlight-2012 West Lancashire Media Team is growing…. Meet the new members of the team! West Lancashire Media Team is growing .....Meet the new members of the team!!!!! Chris Lomas Communication and Chris Lomas Internal Brand Manager James Hume (Jambo) County Videographer James Hume (Jambo) Communications and Internal Brand Manager County Videographer Advocacy? What can groups do? 1. Visibility - The first stage to people advocating us is known we are exists. If we make our meeting places visible with an on-brand sign (Visit Scout Print Centre online) it make us approachable. 2. Parents – they already have an understanding of our values and 11 Ormskirk Media Update... Why Media? The 3 main reasons 1. Advocacy - We want civic leaders, schools, youth groups, community groups, and the general public to understand out values and the work we do and how this fits a modern society. 2. Time – As an organization we need peoples time to help us grow and offer Scouting to more young people. This is achieved by promoting advocacy for our movement. 3. Money – As a charity we depend on grants and donations if people understand the work we do they are more likely to support our organization. Advocacy? What can groups do? 1. Visibility - The first stage to people advocating us is known we are exists. If we make our meeting places visible with an on-brand sign (Visit Scout Print Centre online) it make us approachable. 2. Parents – they already have an understanding of our values and what we do. Make sure they can see the amazing opportunities available through Scouting. Encourage them to sign up to AdventureNews at scouts.org.uk/subscribe a monthly e- newsletter. YSP? What? • A Young Spokesperson (YSP) is a Scout whom positively communicates to media (print, radio and TV), local decision makers and the public to advocate Scouting. To make YSP’s recognizable and approachable to the public they wear an iScout top and international scarf. • YSP’s trained at a county level and are selected, as being the voice of our movement is a prestigious job. If you know a young person that could be a YSP contact Ormskirk District Media Development Manager Andrew King on 07818201471 or email kingy2@hotmail.com District Media Development Plan • Ormskirk’s Media Development Plan for 2012 is currently being finalised with an aim to be complete by 17th February. This time of change and progress is exciting time for West Lancashire • Media Team. The District Media Plan has some ambitious and exciting ideas combining advocating Scouting and creating active citizens, if you are interested in getting involved with Media in Ormskirk contact me Andrew King (DMDM) on 07818201471 or email kingy2@hotmail.com 12 Rainbow House is a special school in Mawdesley for children with disabilities. They put the ability back into disability. They are totally reliant on charitable giving and I would like you to embrass them as your charity for 2012. March 23rd to 31st is Sleep Week and a leaflet is attached, which may be of some interest to you as an adult or family. What I am hoping is that some groups will take part in the sleep week and hold sleepovers, pyjama parties or may have other ideas that you can run with your groups†to raise money for this very well worth charity.† The majority of us have no idea of what it is like to be disabled, or of how it is to struggle to do some of the very basic tasks in life. As a District we could get involved with Rainbow House and with the children who attend the school. If you would like to†take part in Sleep Week then please let me know. Sue Take a look at the wonderful work they do at Rainbow House by clicking on the link below http://www.thelegacyrainbowhouse.com/ 13 focus on M A E T G N I T O O H S T C I R T S I D AIMING TO PLEASE The District Shooting Team is going from strength to strength and with there new indoor shooting range the weather is not a problem so give it a go!!!! The newsletter has got them in there sights and decided to call and see what targets they were aiming to in the future and ask them some loaded questions as well as the Scouts who attended a session, read the report !! The History The small bore rifle shooting was originally run by Lionel Taylor from the 45th who enlisted Eric Simms to help out, when Lionel retired Eric took over the reins and after a couple of years he was invited by County to attend a course at Blackburn Shooting Club with Ian Flavell. In Feb 2011 Eric and Ian had to have a routine refresher course and they had the idea of having a District Shooting Team and invited John Broady and Noel Fearns to join. All 4 of them attended the Blackburn Club on a weekend course and gained a Diploma from the National Small-bore Rifle Association which qualifies them to instruct and supervise Air Rifle Shooting. The Present Offering Small Bore Shooting to all Scouts,Cubs and Leaders. Expert tuition and friendly approach. Indoor range and available to travel. Evening sessions and fully controlled tuition. Full details and contact information within this newsletter. 14 SHOOTI N O I S S E S NG TEAM The Newsletter asked Ian Flavell one of the Shooting instructors to give us a example of what you would expect on a shooting session, “When a group arrive we introduce them to there instructors for the event and as you can imagine paramount is Health and Safety, from explaining the different parts of a rifle, loading of the rifle, handling the rifle correctly, washing of your hands after handling pellets and the do’s and do nots, we follow this with the fun bit of having a go at shooting at targets with the instructors monitoring at all times and advising and helping aligning the sights and techniques to improving there aim, they all leave wanting to come again and with the indoor shooting range more sessions are available.” The 53rd Ormskirk attended a session at the HQ I asked for there feedback on the evening. A few comments from the Scouts of the 53rd, Kurt said “ Great night I enjoyed the shooting and want to come again,’’ Chris and Josh where of the same opinion “Awesome.’’ Liz Roberts GSL with the 53rd had this to say, “ The Scouts had an absolute ball and they are asking when they can do it again, I feel its an activity they would not normally get an opportunity to do and its very affordable, its different and not many kids can say they have done it, the Leaders enjoyed it as well but I think the Scouts were better shots.” The Future Eric had this to say, “The teams goal, and I’m sure the others will agree with me, is to make an exciting activity available, in a safe controlled environment, to all the youngsters involved in Scouting within the Ormskirk District.” “ We hope that the youngsters learn a new skill and develop a sense of discipline when following instructions and we know, from experience, that they all enjoy the sense of achievement when adding up the scores on their target cards”. “ As for our goals as I mentioned in an earlier epistle ,,,we hope that all the groups will come along and have a go and we have made ourselves available to travel to camp sites if necessary. In the future we hope to build improved mobile galleries for the HQ, and in the distant future maybe a designated space for a shooting gallery could be programmed into our new HQ,,,,,,,.” “We also realise that we have to walk before we can run, but eventually we would like to run a Master at Arms badge course for the Scouts and Explorer Scouts”. 15 M A E T E TH Name Eric Simms Position District Quarter-Master, Sasu and Shooting Instructor How long have you been in Scouting About 37 years How did you get involved in Scouting Elsie Marshall asked me to run the football for the 5th Ormskirk and developed the league and been involved every since. What keeps you in Scouting Long lasting friendships, Fellowship friends, remembering Gary, sharing good times and helping our young people get the most out of life. What has been your best memory in Scouting Proudly leading the district on St Georges Day and being awarded the silver acorn Name Ian Flavell Position in Scouting GSL 42nd Ormskirk, DSL,District Shooting Instructor and District Archery Instructor How long have you been in Scouts 21 years How did you get involved in Scouts Through my children's involvement. What keeps you in Scouting. The friendship and helping young people. What has been your best memory in Scouts Gaining my Wood Beads and Going to Gillwell Park Name John Broady Position SASU and District Shooting Instructor How long have you been in Scouting 10 yrs but also was in Cubs and Scouts with 5th Ormskirk when growing up How did you get involved in Scouts My Mothers friend got me into Scouts and Mum was happy that I was out from under her feet. What keeps you in Scouting To be honest as a group (fellowship) we have been everywhere and done loads of interesting things. What has been your best memory in Scouts Climbing Helvellyn with Cubs. Name Noel Fearn Position SASU and District Shooting Instructor How long have you been Scouting 20 Years or more How did you get involved in Scouts My son joined Cubs What keeps you in Scouting The social life and my past experiences What has been your best memory in Scouts Ormskirk District reaching 100yrs of Scouting 16 IES T I V I T C A T TRIC S I D K R I K 2012 G ORMS N I K A Y A SEA K Weekend 5/6/7 May- North Wales A training weekend in North Wales. Suitable for 2 Star standard paddlers with no or little sea kayaking experience. 2 days will be spent on sea kayak handling practice in Borthwen Bay, Anglesey . This is reasonably sheltered but quite safe. For Explorers, Network and Leaders. Come for the whole weekend, with minibus available. Equipment supplied courtesy of Upholland Canoe Club. You’ll learn 3 Star [Sea] skills and we’ll provide opportunity to complete BCU 3 Star later in the year. Paddling opportunities as follows: Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 PM Saturday 5 May [Trearrdur Bay] AM Sunday 6 May [Borthwen Bay] PM Sunday 6 May [Borthwen Bay] Until 15.00hrs Monday 7 May [Trearrdur Bay] You can join us for all or any session(s). You’ll get more out of 2 consecutive sessions. Each session costs £10 for coaching and use of equipment. You need to book on each session-maximum of 8 participants each session. If you want to come for all 4 sessions the cost of £40 will include minibus transport from Upholland. Otherwise you’ll need to make your own way there. We’ll either camp at Outdoor Alternative near Rhoscolyn. Tents are £6.50 per night [2011 price]. This is frame tent charge so if you mate up and bunk together this is quite economical. Alternatively, if demand exists and facilities still available when I book I’ll organise bunkhouse accommodation on either a self catering [£17.50] or B&B [£20.50] basis. You’ll cater for yourself. This will be off-site but I’ll include minibus transport to Borthwen each day. If you’re with me in the bunkhouse lobby then book early so I can make arrangements. Separate male & female accommodation available at time of writing. CONTACT Act now if you’re interested and register your e-mail address with me for details of our sea kayak trip weekend which complements this training on Saturday 19 May and Sunday 20 May. Group Quartermaster – John Lechmere 104 Hallbridge Gardens, Upholland, Skelmersdale. WN8 0ER (H) 01695 632434 (M) 07747 304351 jlechmere@o2.co.uk 17 h t a m r e t f A THE Over 500 Scouts take on the challenge of Operation Moonlight 2012! Operation Moonlight 2012 took place on Saturday 21st January 2012. Organised by Ormskirk SASU Crew, the event which has been running successfully for 24 years, had the largest ever turnout with over 500 Scouts and Explorer Scouts from all over the North West taking part. There were over 90 teams entered into the event. Richard Charnock the Event Coordinator from Ormskirk SASU Crew said, “It was a brilliant day and a real challenge for all the young people taking part but event at the end, you could see in their faces just how much fun it had been.” For those who do not know Operation Moonlight is an evasion exercise which takes place within West Lancashire. Teams are bussed to a secret location and at 12 noon the young people are set loose and spend the next 9 hours evading teams of catchers and navigating their way to the finish around 10 miles (16.5 km) away as the crow flies. The aim is to find their way to the finish with as many ‘lives’ intact as possible. Scouts and Explorer Scouts probably added to the distance quite significantly as to avoid the dreaded catchers that take away valuable ‘lives’. This year there were over 90 catchers. (Catchers are also Moonlight Marshals, and whilst trying to catch as many teams as possible for the catcher’s prize they are also there to ensure the safety and well being of the teams.) Chris Philips, who is in charge of the Route and rules for Operation Moonlight 2012 said, “We’d chosen two start points – one for the Explorers and Scout Network over in Worden Park and one for the Scouts in Upholland. Both routes ensured that the participants would have to use their navigation skills and team work to avoid being caught by the catchers.” There are four categories – Solo Scouts (those without a leader), Led Scouts, Explorer Scouts and Network/Veteran. The overall winners this year were from Trogz Explorer Scout Unit which are based in Kirkham & Wesham. Not only did they win the trophy for the Explorer Scout category they also won overall by not losing any lives and arriving in early during the finish window. 18 Results! The top results are below but full results and more details about the event can be found on the Ormskirk District Website – Click on this link www.ormskirkscouts.org.uk OVERALL Position Catergory Team Name 1st Explorers Trogz A 2nd 3rd Explorers Team Extreme Net & Vet (Team Vegas) Group / Unit Trogz Yetis & Ormskirk Explorers OK Network EXPLORERS Position Catergory Team Name Group / Unit 1st Explorers Trogz A 2nd 3rd Explorers Team Extreme Explorers 10th Altside A Trogz Yetis & Ormskirk Explorers 10th Altside LED SCOUTS Position Catergory 1st Led Scouts 2nd Led Scouts 3rd Led Scouts Team Name Eccleston Extreme Unit 5th Lancaster B Burscough Bandits Group / Unit Eccleston Scouts 5th Lancaster 29th OK Team Name Team Thunder 41st A 17th A Group / Unit 29th OK 41st OK 17th OK SOLO SCOUTS Position Catergory 1st Solo Scouts 2nd Solo Scouts 3rd Solo Scouts 19 ? D E P P SNA s o t o h p t Even MOONLIGHT Links to more info click here http://ormskirkscouts.org.uk/blog/2012/01/27/500-scouts-take-part-inoperation-moonlight-2012/ 20 PROJECT PERU Project Peru is part of West Lancashire Scouts International Programme and takes place between the 27th July and 20th August 2012. The unit consists of 19 Explorer Scouts, Networkers, Young Leaders and Leaders from all over the County. The unit will be taking part in a large scale project to help the villagof Anapaua with water issues. Join In Project Peru The Join in Project has been created to promote the project and allow members of the County to take part in a number of activities and challenges related to the different areas of Peru and the projects the unit will be working on. By completing the Join-In Challenge you will be supporting the project by purchasing the Join in badges. These are participation badges and can be worn on your uniform as soon as you get them to show that you are supporting the project. Please see the badge order form for more details on how to order these. How to take part in the Join in Challenge The Join in challenge is simple just complete two challenges in each of the zones for your section. If you have time then why not try to do more! Once you have completed the challenge contact Cath Hargreaves from the leadership team who will arrange for your section, group or unit to receive a certificate of completion. We hope you enjoy the challenges and thank you for your support. West Lancashire Project Peru 2012 unit Hi Everyone This is a fundraiser for the team going out to Peru in 2012 so it would be really great if you could spread the word far and wide for us.The packs are on the County Website and will be sent out through the Facebook and Twitter accounts. Any other ideas of how this can be distributed please let me know.† Cheers† Cath Hargreaves 53 Kimberley Street Coppull, Chorley Lancashire PR7 5AG 01257 470905 07789 003025 21 CALLING ALL LEADERS Why not come along and join the Archery team 2nd Monday every month at HQ 7.30 – 9 pm and have a go, All Welcome. Please let us know if you are interested (so we have an idea of numbers) by emailing janwormald@googlemail.com or phoning Jan on 0151 280 1447 and leave a message. CALLING ALL SECTIONS If you would like to book an Archery session for your group/ section please contact Ian Gadsden by email. igadsden@btinternet.com or phone 07971808416. 22 DISTRICT SHOOTING TEAM Regularly appearing at Cub Camp and District Family camps, as well as offering evening sessions in Ormskirk by arrangement, the District Shooting Team provides opportunities to experience rifle shooting to young people of cub scout age and above. Team members have gained the certificates necessary to lead these sessions through training organised by County Scouts under control of the National Small Bore Rifle Association and we have a new shooting gallery. Ann Simms <simms582@bt>internet.com Contact us to book a session for cubs, scouts or explorers, (two hours for £20), using the new range at District HQ. Alternatively, we are quite happy to travel to Camp Sites which already have shooting galleries set up and can bring our own equipment on request. Leaders wanting to add rifle shooting to their skill set are welcome to try it out. Contact Ann Simms <simms582@btinternet.com> or phone 01695 576129 23 The Founder’s Feast 7pm, Saturday 25th Feb 2012 3 Course Dinner Drinks Reception Live Entertainment Disco The Woodland Suite, Ribby Hall Hotel, Wrea Green Remembering Scouting Past Thanking our Volunteers Looking to the Future For all West Lancashire Scouters aged 18+ More information at: www.westlancashirescouts.org.uk/foundersfeast -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please send me ….. ticket(s) for the Founder’s Feast at a cost of £30 per ticket. I enclose a sheet with the full names of all my guests (inc. dietary requirements) and a cheque for the full amount made payable to: West Lancashire Scouts. Contact Tel. Name Contact email (preferred) Name of party you would like to sit with Address District (Please return to: "Founders Feast", c/o Anthony Wilson, 104 Norris Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 3QS) NEW! or pay online at: www.shop.westlancashirescouts.org.uk (50p booking fee per ticket applies) 24 25 Following the success of the Big Cook family camp, Ormskirk District Scouts are organising another “drop in” Family camp over the weekend of 13th-15th July 2012. This will be held at Scarisbrick Guide Camp, Scarisbrick, Southport. If you would like to be involved as a family, please could you fill in the form below to give us an idea of the numbers to expect for a fun packed weekend. You do not have to stay for the whole weekend, you could, for example, turn up on the Saturday evening and leave on the Sunday morning or just turn up for part of the day. The only thing that we ask of all adults (over the age of 18) is to undergo the Ormskirk District Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. To help us ensure that the process is completed in time for the camp, please return the completed form below by 12th May 2012 to Chris Charlton, 16 Willow Hey, Tarleton, Preston. PR4 6DN or email the form back to chrischarlton@lineone.net. If you have not already got CRB clearance with Ormskirk District Scouts, then we will advise you of dates to come and complete the CRB form. If you were CRB’d for the last family camp it will still be valid, just enter the number below. Which Scout Group are you a member of? _________________________________ Names of Family Members Surname * Forename Date of birth Section * If you are over the age of 18 and have been CRB’d by Ormskirk District Scouts, please put your CRB number B = Beaver, C = Cub, S = Scout, ES = Explorer Scout, N = Network, F = Fellowship, P = Parent, Si = Sibling Family Details Address Telephone Mobile Town Work phone County Postcode When were you thinking of attending – Email as a guide only and not cast in stone! –Please tick Fri 13th eve Sat 14th am Sat 14th pm Sat 14th eve Sun 15th am Sun 15th pm 26 And Finally Well a month gone by already and I’m sure its down to the economy that even the months are going quicker than normal, anyway here goes. Great Moonlight again this year well done to the organisers and many comments coming in of how well this event is run and how much fun it is as always. Weather conditions were good and no Fog!!!!! The newsletter was invited to the West Lancashire District Media Team event at Chorley and had a great day with the team. I was surprised as to how much is going on and how much hard work and time is spent in promoting Scouting in the District and getting your news out there locally and nationally. Also a great buffet!!!!!!! The focus on the District Shooting Team is hopefully one of many to be run in the newsletter to promote whats offered in the District after the Activities night so please contact the newsletter if you would like an activity promoted. The newsletter has put in links to stories and websites to enable more of an in depth look at various items on the Ormskirk District website or other trusted webpages so please click on them. Me and my better half attended the Mawdesley Quiz Night organized by Chris Charlton and had a great night but let me tell you Chris is not the fun and smiling person we all know when she has the power to give points or deduct points from your score she’s ruthless!!!!!!!! Peter at scout.news01@talktalk.net 27