Mongoose camp at Hag Dyke
Last weekend, our Mongoose Explorer Scout Unit headed into the Yorkshire Dales for an adventure at Hag Dyke, a fantastic and remote Scout hostel perched high on the slopes of Great Whernside, above the village of Kettlewell.
Set high in the hills, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Hag Dyke offers a truly special base for Scouting adventures. Surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, it's a place where young people can challenge themselves, enjoy the outdoors, build friendships and make memories that last a lifetime. Reaching a place like Hag Dyke is an adventure in itself, and its peaceful, isolated setting makes it the perfect spot to reflect on what Scouting is all about. And joining them for the weekend was none other than Barry Donald-Hewitt, Chief Volunteer of Scotland!
Barry is no stranger to South Leeds and Morley Scouts, having been a leader in our District many years ago. It's wonderful to see someone who was once part of our local Scouting family now helping to lead Scouting across Scotland – and even better to welcome him back for a weekend of adventure with our Explorers!
During his Scouts' Own, Barry spoke about Scouts' A Place to Belong strategy and shared a powerful message about the difference between "going to Scouts" and "being a Scout".
It's a simple but important distinction. Scouting isn't just somewhere we turn up each week – it's something we're part of. It's about the friendships we build, the values we share, the adventures we experience and the sense of belonging that stays with us long after the meeting ends.
And what better place to reflect on that message than Hag Dyke? High above the valley, surrounded by the landscape and shared adventure of the Dales, it was a wonderful reminder that Scouting is about so much more than the activities we do. It's about the people we meet, the experiences we share and the community we become part of.
What better way to demonstrate that sense of belonging than seeing someone return to their Scouting roots, sharing a weekend with the next generation of Explorers?
A huge thank you to Barry for joining Mongoose ESU, sharing his thoughts and being part of their adventure, and to all the volunteers who make weekends like this possible.
Because Scouting isn't just something we do. It's part of who we are.
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