Scouts of all ages from Wansdyke District, part of a team from Avon County, attended the Scout National Archery Competition which took place recently at Phasels Wood Activity Centre near Hemel Hempstead.

Two Cubs achieved two Golds and a Bronze between them; impressive given they had not competed before. The Scouts brought home a Bronze. One leader, again a newbie, won his class, whilst three others, who have competed before, each came home with a medal.

The weekend was so much more than medals. It provided an amazing opportunity to try unusual types of archery. Clout is a ‘Lord of the Rings’ moment when, in unison, arrows are shot towards a flag across a meadow. For those who fail to make the distance there is a fun ‘Nowt for Clout’ badge, which many could claim!

Field Archery is actually in the wood, with targets in novel places – you may have to lean around a tree or shoot downhill. There are always big grins and much discussion after this round. Inbetween these events, there are various activities for the youngsters to enjoy, such as pot-holing, climbing ‘the rock’, high ropes and more.

County Archery Adviser, Martin Hutchings, summed up the weekend: “Another fantastic camp, really relaxed and so much fun. Roll on next year!”

John Mander