Last weekend, the 27th Darlington Scout Group swapped Skerne Park for the riverbanks of North Yorkshire, heading off on their biannual Group Camp. With 52 young people and 16 adult volunteers, the team took over Aldwark Scout Campsite – a centre known for its fantastic water activities.
Across the weekend, everyone from our tiniest Squirrels to our most experienced Scouts got stuck into the action. Each young person took part in three jam-packed water sessions, trying their hand at canoeing, kayaking, bell-boating and paddleboarding. For many, the standout moment was the group river trip on Saturday afternoon. With the Squirrels safely aboard the motorised pilot boat, the rest of the group paddled upriver in convoy – stopping mid-adventure for a well-earned sugary treat before heading back downstream.
But the fun didn’t stop once they were back on dry land. Evenings were spent around the BBQ, singing songs by the campfire, walking through the scenic countryside, and just enjoying the simple joy of playing together outdoors.
A huge thank you to all the volunteers who made the weekend possible – from organising kit to flipping burgers, supervising sessions to sharing stories by firelight. It’s weekends like this that create the memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
Here’s to the next one!

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