Pathfinder Cubs

It is always good to look back over the year as a reminder to all the things we have been involved in . A highlight of the year was our celebration of the King’s Coronation. Our Mayor and the Town Cryer visited us to help with this memorable celebration.

We took part in the Carnival with our Egyptian theme and were awarded the best entry by Children – as usual a lot of work by the cubs and leaders and its nice to win a trophy. A big thanks to Franki who came with us dressed as a Mummy.

Another of the years highlights is taking part in JOTT – sadly the last JOTT. But it is being resurrected as Trail Jam in May this year. The main walk is approx. 10 miles and many of our cubs complete this longer walk – a great achievement.

We have completed many Activity badges this year – including Athletes, Local Knowledge, Collectors, Chefs and Artist badges. There were some wonderful meals cooked by the cubs to complete the Chefs badge.

Chil organised our trip to HMS Belfast in June. This was the trip we had to cancel a week before we were due to go at the start of lockdown. Many of our cubs who have since moved on to scouts joined us as they were so disappointed when the trip had to be cancelled . We had one of the hottest weekends of the year for our trip and the challenge was to find places to restock on water and ice-cream!

Baloo organised our Summer Camp at Woodhouse Park last year. Quite a task as all 3 cub packs camped together for the first time in many years. We had glorious weather and enjoyed many of the activities that we took part in.

Other highlights of the year were visiting the Police Station in Swindon, end of year bowling, using the amazing assault course built by the Explorers and Scouts and a visit by one of our new parents who’s family have just moved here from Hong Kong.

The District Chess competition was held again this year, the first time for 4 years. Unfortunately we didn’t have much take up as the date was released very late – however the best cub team went to our pack, so well done to all who took part.

A few weeks ago we had a very interesting visit to REME followed by a sleepover in the scout hut. It was great to see the majority of our pack taking part, even some who had only recently been invested. The oldest 12 cubs were then able to have a try at air rifle shooting the following morning.

We have had a great and busy year and this does not happen without a lot of work from our pack leaders who give so much time to help with the smooth running of the pack. Thanks also to the parents who have stepped forward to help when we have needed an extra pair of hands, we really appreciate the time you give. We have had additional help from Tilly, who is working towards her Duke of Edinburgh’s award – it is always good to have the extra help and see young people develop as they get used to getting to know and help the cubs.