Whalley Beavers, Cubs and Scouts take on challenging survival activities by 'camping at home'

Scouts of all ages across the Ribble Valley have had camps and expeditions cancelled, but some have taken up the challenge to “camp at home” instead.

Young people have been asked to pack a bag, build a den or pitch a tent in the house or garden and move in for up to 30 nights during the month of April. They must also make their own breakfast each morning.

A spokesman said: "Whalley Cubs have been set challenges on camp to work towards badges, such as building a campfire, real or virtual, making s'mores and helping prepare other meals. They keep in touch with 'Zoom' meetings, blogs and photos which parents share with other families online. Some parents have even joined in."

The call came from Northumberland Scouts who have invited as many Scouts as possible to take part in the #CampAtHome. The camp will end with an attempt to set the world record for the Largest Virtual Camp on April 30th.

Whalley Cub, Tegan, said: "My tent is in the conservatory and in the morning the birds peck on the roof and wake me up, but I am really enjoying the month of camping, I think I can do the full 30 days."

While one of the parents, Rebecca, said: "The virtual camps and weekly Zoom meetings are working brilliantly well for us. The camps, activities and badge work set by the leaders is really helping to give Charlie a focus through these weeks. He is relishing the challenges set for him and has certainly learnt some life skills as a result such as cooking and gardening.”