Explorers Report – October 2008 By Alexis Shirtliff on October 1, 2008 (updated June 3, 2014) In Explorers News / 0 comments At present there are 7 Explorer Scouts and 3 leaders. We have had a busy summer other than our unit meetings with the Explorers helping out at Scoutabout in June and District camp just last weekend. Summer camp was full on, starting with cycling to and from camp including an extended ride on the train. Events included Snail racing (Slot car racing), Mountain boarding, Sailing, Canoeing (thanks to Southborne Sea scouts) Swimming, Visit to Portsmouth harbour and submarine. Lots of cycling and hikes including an overnight hike to a remote field as part of there training for the Scout/Duke Of Edinburgh Awards. Sleeping out under the stars after our feast proved a bit wet on the last night. A great time was had by all including the Scouts who had to put up with us. The autumn term started with Pedal car racing at Blackbush kart track. Taken very seriously by the pros and enjoyed by us in between eating! Camping was a bit damp among the millionaires in Sunninghill though. We have got rid of any bugs in the hut by opening up the fireplace and having a small fire. There was more smoke in the hut than went up the chimney! We are gradually working towards the Explorers gaining their main scouting awards linked in with DOE awards within the unit programmes. The deposit has been paid for the trip to Switzerland in 2009. Peter is organising this trip. There is a good atmosphere within the unit and it is very unusual for anyone to miss a unit evening or event. Future plans include a Survival camp, Hill walking in Wales, Techno challenge and of course our end of year meal.