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November 01 Don District Jamboree Selection Information Evening Don District launch their Jamboree selection process announcing an information evening to be held at 14th Grenoside HQ 29th November at 7pm. All eligible to go welcome with their parents with information on the selection weekend to be held early in the New Yew, more details later. DESC Kit Levesley & DC Designate Steve Clayton will be visiting all Troops & Units with a brief Roadshow.  October 25 50 Year Service Award for Howard Swinburn Don District Scout Fellowship Member recently received his 50 Year's of Scouting Award from District Commissioner Jim Carroll. Here's to the next 50 years Howard  Soap Box Derby Once again it was a lovely Autumn morning in Longley Park for the setting of the Don District Soap Box Derby with 15 teams from 6 Troops battling it out to be Don Districts Jensen Button. Safety scrutineering took place and one or two adjustments to braking or sharp edges were made to allow all teams to compete. Many new Soap Boxes had been designed this year most with a lower centre of gravity and fixed steering, but the most unusual being the two seater for a disabled Scout. After plenty of practice runs the races started first on the straight course finishing with the slalom run. A very early retrement in the competition for the3 2nd's 'Big Cheese' and an eventual and sensible withdrawal of the 33rd's 'PC Extra Wood' after several spectacular barrel roles. After some interesting and enthralling racing with only a few bumps and bruises to show for the efforts 32nd were announced victors for the second year running with the '4 Wheel Wonder' although rumour has it that had the crew of the 32nd's 'Torpedo' informed the Judges of their scores as requested they would have been the victors instead. 231st took both 2nd and 3rd spots with 'Killer' and 'Be Reight' and and 1st & 2nd year winner of the event 'Panda Blue' only managing 9th. Trophies were presented by ADC Peter Blakemore. Once again tihs event proved to be one of the most popular Scout events of the year, so much so County has taken note and is looking to run a County Soap Box Derby in 2010, watch this space................ Results; 1st 50pts 4 Wheel Wonder 32nd 2nd 44pts Killer 231st 3rd 42pts Be Reight 231st 4th 41pts Bat Bird 82nd 5th 38pts Torpedo 32nd 6th 37pts Crash Test Dummies 32nd 7th 36pts Tandam 82nd 8th 27pts Shire Tots 231st 9th 24pts Panda Blue 33rd 10th 22pts Enviro 231 231st 11th 20pts Almighty 82nd 12th 19pts 00 Duck 33rd 13th 15pts Winco Flyer 61st 14th Retired PC Extra Wood 33rd 15th Retired Big Cheese 32nd October 09 News Items Stewart Butler will be holding a validation day at Hesley Wood on the 24th of October between 10-00am and 4-00pm. To validate any completed Training Module please visit Stewart on this day.  Date of the next Beaver Leaders Meeting is Monday 9th November 2009. 8pm at Trippet Lane. Don District Beaver Scout Carol Service this year to be held at St. Marks Church Grenoside. 6.30pm start. This is a carol service for the Beaver Scouts and their parents and any other family members. October 08 Beavers & Scouts Complete BadgesBeavers Experiment Badge  On Saturday 26th September the Beavers held a Fun Day at Grenoside Scout HQ. The theme of the day was experimenting, and aim was for the Beavers to gain their Experimental Badge. There were 58 Beavers from 5 Colonies took part. Over 12 different experiments for them to have a go at, from lava lamps to batteries and much more. As the weather was very good to us and we made good use of the outdoors with a picnic, followed by a campfire. A good day for all who attended with all 58 gaining their Experimental badge. Well done to the Beavers and well done to the leaders for coming up with some different experiments. Sylvia, ADC Beavers Scouts Expedition Challenge to York  On Saturday 26th September 2009 39 Scouts from Don District took part in the Expedition Challenge. There were Scouts from the 25th, the 32nd, 33rd, the 82nd, the 93rd, the 105th and the 231st. They were tasked a few weeks earlier with a project to study in York. The challenge started in Sheffield and the patrols had to find their own way to York by train. The sense of excitement and relief that they had arrived was beaming from their faces. Once in York they all got on with going to their selected area and completing the study. The attractions visited included the National Rail Museum, York Minster, The Yorkshire Museum, York Castle Museum, Jorvik Viking Centre and Dig. Also one group rode around on the site seeing open top bus and boat and their study area was York itself. Once they had done the study and made appropriate notes all 8 teams made their way to the Snowball Plantation Scout Campsite in Stockton-on-the-forest by bus. At the campsite the Scouts had to pitch their tents and cook their own evening meal and breakfast. Again they got on with the task and various versions of Spaghetti Bolognese were created. The leaders ran a campfire on Saturday night with involvement from some of the Scouts. On the Sunday the Scouts had some time to prepare a presentation to the rest of us about their selected attraction. There were video and slide shows on mobile phones and one group took pictures on a digital camera and had the forethought to have them developed while in York, so these were passed round as well. There were 8 presentations and every Scout took a part in it. These presentations showed to the leaders that the Scouts had done what was requested of them on the Saturday. All 39 Scouts were presented with the Expedition Challenge award prior to leaving the campsite. All the leaders commented on the success of the event and the Scouts demonstrated that they could be responsible and trusted to work on their own complete the challenge and represent the district and Scouting in a good light to members of the public. The camp was closed and the Scouts got the bus back into York then the train back to Sheffield when the challenge officially ended. Dan Wilson (SL) September 13 National Independent Safeguarding Authority SchemeThe Scout Association is aware of today’s stories in the media highlighting the new regulations designed to protect young people that will come into place over the next 18 months. These procedures are being moved forward by the newly created Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). For many months we have been working with the ISA and the Home Office to make sure this scheme, which is designed to protect young people, is implemented in an efficient manner. Indeed many of the recently revised appointment processes have been designed with this new system in mind.
1. More than once a month 2. Three or more occasions in a 30 day period(e.g. at one specific event) 3. Overnight (which means between 02.00 and 06.00)
We are working with the ISA to implement this scheme over the next 18 months. More detailed information will be published in 2010. The service will extend to England, Wales and Northern Ireland, although arrangements for application and appeals may differ slightly in Northern Ireland. A separate but aligned scheme is being set up in Scotland under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Hope this clears things up and puts a few minds at rest!! September 04 Leader Training at Hesley 11th-13th Sept
A reminder that all Training Modules 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11,12,13,14, 15, 17, 18, 19 are available on 11th-14th September at Hesley Wood.
Please use the attached form to book. This is an ideal opportunity to complete any modules you still need to complete for your wood badge.
Click to download training details letter Click to download module summary Click to download application form Module 16 Nights Away Anyone requiring Nights Away Training please book onto the course 18th-20th Sept 1st Aid Training Book onto the 1st Aid course on the 20th Sept as a basic requirement for your leadership. August 27 82nd Scouts second Don Group to visit Europe this year!As the 82nd Chapeltown headed off for Belgium, the second Group from Don District to visit Europe this year, members of the Explorer Scout Leader team were there to send them off. If they are having half as good a time at Merken as the Explorers did in Austria, then they will be having a wonderful time!! Pictures of their departure are below, pictures of the Explorer trip at: http://donaustria09.spaces.live.com/ July 25 Bear Grylls 'super-proud' to lead UK's Scouts Bear Grylls officially became the Chief Scout of the United Kingdom on Saturday 11 July – cheered on by nearly 3,000 Explorer Scouts. The official handover between Peter Duncan (Chief Scout from 2004-2009) and Bear took place at 9.30am at Gilwell 24, an adventure camp for 14-18 year olds. Click here to see report  Click here to see the video  Cub Town Train Don District Cub’s town trail Held: June 6th Saturday Afternoon Venue: Grenoside. Weather: Showers    The Event: Altogether we had 7 groups enter with a total of 9 teams competing. Each team had a leader from another group with them. The teams had to answer questions and collect items while following a route around Grenoside. The cubs and leaders enjoyed the event even though a cub did try a short cut down a man hole cover (fortunately he was not seriously hurt just minor grazes). I would like to thank all the leaders and cubs who took part for making it a good event. Results: 1. 14th Grenoside C 2. 82nd Chapletown A 3. 25th & 61st combined team Andrew Papka ADC Cubs Cub Olympics, Iron Scout & Scout Swimming Gala The Cubs Olympics were held on Saturday 10TH July 2009 during the district camp at Walesby campsite. The Olympics was based on the decathlon as well as covering aspects of the Athlete badge. The cubs were split into six teams and each team was named after a country. The cubs also had to design a banner for the event which contained the flag of the country and its name. The countries were Portugal, Brazil, China, Japan, USA and Germany. The events held on the day were 1. Running • This involved running 50m and was timed for the athletes’ badge. • Each team raced 50m and had heats. The fastest from each team raced against the fastest from other teams. • There was also a relay for the fastest team. 2. Jumping • Each team jumped and the furthest from each team went into a final. 3. Shot • Each team threw the shot and the furthest from each team went into a final 4. High Jump • Sergeant jumps for athletes badge • The highest 4 jumpers went into the final for a jump off. 5. Running • Shuttle run for athlete’s badge. • The fastest team got 10 points. 6. Hurdles / obstacle race • The cubs had various obstacles to cover and the fastest team won the points. 7. Discus • Each team threw the discus and the furthest from each team went into a final 8. Mini Marsh mellow Olympics • See how far they could throw a marshmallow • See how far they could spit it • See how far can roll it 9. Javelin • Each team threw the javelin and the furthest from each team went into a final 10. Long run. Have a final long run for all as individuals for extra points for first 10.  There were 9 individual winners of the events and an overall team event. 1. Running. Portugal Mathew Barrow 14th Grenoside 2. Long Jumping: USA Elliot 3. Shot put: Japan Jack Barker 14th Grenoside 4. High Jump: Brazil David Smythe 14th Grenoside 5. Running. Portugal Mathew Barrow 14th Grenoside 6. Discus: Portugall Finlay Mitchell 14th Grenoside 7. Marshmallow mini Olympics: USA Elliot 8. Javelin: Brazil Caleb Elliot 9. Long Run: Portugal Mathew Barrow 14th Grenoside The overall winners of the event China Leader: Pat Flannigan 14th Grenoside • Liam Mouldycliff 14th Grenoside • Joshua Ruston 14th Grenoside • Alex Sisman 14th Grenoside • Denim Rodgers 105th High Green • Luke Hardy 105th High Green • Andrew Crowhurst 93rd Stocksbridge • James Hood 93rd Stocksbridge. I would like to thank all the cubs for their sportsmanship and efforts and the leaders for their assistance. Also Janette Mellor for supplying equipment from Ecclesfield Primary School. Carl CSL 14th  Cub Camp 2009 Less than a couple of weeks ago our Scouts were kind enough to let their younger brothers and sisters join them at their District Camp, along with Explorers and Young Leaders in July at Walesby Activity Camp. All the Cubs (well nearly all) said they had a great time - the weather was very kind with just one downpour late Saturday night. We had one lovely Cub who kept people up on Friday night and, I'm told, Saturday night. By Sunday he was very tired and very homesick, but we got him through the day. The Cooking Team of Sylvia, Margaret, Andrew and Peter (with Bobs help) did a fantastic job feeding around 150 campers for 5 main meals + suppers, in double quick time, all things considered! A huge thanks to them. Thanks to Peter for ministering first aid - particularly to the poor Cub who walked onto a wasp's nest and came out of the bushes with a few stings! The Cubs took part in some games, they went to the Camp Fire and had a quiz on Saturday night. We didn't manage to drown any of them whilst raft building on Sunday morning. The Cubs (who took part) and the leaders (who watched) said it was great fun and really enjoyed it. Thanks to everyone who took part and made it a brilliant weekend - so good I could easily run out of superlatives! The huge marquee we hired from Walesby, with its water and oven, made things much easier all round - a good investment and one to consider again in the future. A lot less hassle for groups who would otherwise have had to provide lots of additional tentage. The main activity, all day Saturday, was the 2009 Cub Olympics... I would like to thank Carl Smith for organising and running the Games - a superb effort, and he would like to thank all the cubs for their sportsmanship and efforts and the leaders for their assistance. Andrew Papka ADC Cubs  Well what a great weekend this was with 66 scouts and two Explorer Scouts attending what was our first attempt at this event. As the title suggests it was based on the Iron Man Challenge with the 66 Scouts being split into 18 teams with representation from across the District. There were 2 teams from the 14th, the 25th, the 32nd and the 93rd and the 33rd, 1 from the 82nd plus a combined 82nd/105th team. With 3 teams from the 76th and the 231st completing the line up. The first event was a run, or well that’s what it was meant to be as some of the Scouts decided a leisurely walk was more appropriate!!! This run was from Camp centre to the lake and for those of you that know Walesby it’s a good twenty minute walk. I ran the route and set off a good 5 minutes after the scouts and finished ahead of 50% of them. Perhaps they don’t like running or perhaps next time we should actually knock points off if I beat them!! They were given a raffle ticket at then end which represented where they had finished and then each team’s position was noted and the average position for the team worked out. 18 points were awarded to the best team with 1 point to the team finished in last place. The 82nd taking maximum points in this section. On to the cycling this was done in relay races of 3 teams at once with points awarded for finishing 1st, 2nd or 3rd. Each team had 3 races and sat the end the team with the mot points were awarded the maximum score of 18. Congratulations to the 76th B team for winning this section. After lunch it was on to the lake for the final test. Canoeing! This was again a relay race as for the cycling with the aim to canoe round the lake and back before the second team member swapped places. However the island proved to be little too far away and the corse was shortened. Some would still be trying to get back to dry land now!! Again each team got two races and points were awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd. The 82nd were the eventual winners of this section. As I write this I can not find the final full score sheets but as soon as I do these will be published. Sorry guys. However the overall winners were the 82nd who with maximum 18 points in two disciplines won by 11 points. (If my memory is correct.) If however we look at the other scores the competition achieved its objectives in that sum that were poor in one discipline were better in others. Well done to ALL those that took part. The Explorer section was decided by a final race off in a canoe with Luke just edging out Ed in what was almost a photo finish. Luke had won the running but Ed drew level over the cycling event and it was finished by a very close canoeing event. Well done Lads and thanks for being patient for your turn whilst we dealt with the scouts. Thanks to those of you that helped set up the event and scored etc on the day as without you all it could not have happened. Special thanks to the cooks who somehow managed to feed us in time so we could complete the events planned. Matt SL 33rd & Swimming Gala This was held in the lovely warm solar heated pool at Walesby on the Sunday of Iron Scout Camp. The aim was to have a fun gala with a series of relay races which were to involve the members of each group. Three relays were held with points being awarded for position finished. These relays were aimed at fun rather than being a serious swimming gala and the lads had to push a bowl with a football in, carry a quoit from one side to the other, provided they had caught it first and throw an odd number on a dice before they could enter the pool to retrieve a tennis ball form the other end and swim back ( quickly due to the water temperature) before subjecting their mate to the lovely water. The final event saw them having to retrieve different coloured balls from the water and put them in a bowl the side of the pool. The event was won by the 32nd with the 82nd a point behind. Again I will publish full results when I have found them. There was a separate competition for Leaders v Young Leaders v Explorers which the Leaders somehow managed to win!!! Thanks for Mike Liddell for helping organise this event. Cheers Matt SL 33rd Wasn't camp just brilliant. Hey - some minor hassles along the way, (including one scout left behind by his leaders), but nothing to spoil a great weekend. A few special thanks... The catering team - Sylvia, Margaret, Andrew and Peter (with Bob) did a fantastic job to feed us. To Steve for EVERYTHING, including the initial invitation to the Cubs to join with the Scouts. The Cub Leaders and Scout Leaders for putting up with me. To Carl (and Jeanette) for organising and running the olympics. If I have not mentioned you, it does not mean you are appreciated any less. THANKS to all of you. LOST PROPERTY There were a number of items that were cleared from the marquee after camp. Pots plates and cutlery have gone back to chapeltown - contact Steve Clothes, towels, caps and two top trumps games are with me - let me know if your Cubs or Parents ask for anything. Thanks again Andrew What a camp that was with 3 competitions including Cubs and Scouts all camping together and enjoying a brilliant weekend. The weekend couldn't have run without the spirit of the kids, the considerable effort of all the Leaders, a special thanks to those running the individual events with a lot of help from their friends and especially the catering team who cooked plentiful good nose bag (often eating what was left over themselves if they were lucky) on time and tasty to boot. Thanks everyone, Don District should be proud, great Scouting at it's best.  July 16 Scouts 5 a side Football Ten teams turned up at Concord Sports centre on Friday 3rd July 2009 for the annual 5 A-Side tournament and they were split into two groups with the results as followsGroup A 76th B 0 v 0 33rd B 105th 1 v 0 61st B 76th B 2 v 0 61st C 33rd B 1 v 0 105th 61st B 1 v 0 61st C 76th B 0 v 0 105th 33rd B 2 v 0 61st B 105th 3 v 0 61st C 76th B 1 v 1 61st B 33rd B 2 v 0 61st C Group B 14th 1 v 1 76th A 82nd 3 v 0 61st A 14th 3 v 0 33rd A 76th A 1 v 1 82nd 61st A 2 v 1 33rd A 14th 1 v 0 82nd 76th A 1 v 0 61st A 82nd 3 v 0 33rd A 14th 1 v 0 61st A 76th A 2 v 0 33rd A After all the points were calculated the final tables were calculated and the top two teams in each group went through to the semi finals which saw the 33rd B play the 76th A and the 105th play the 14th. The 14th ran away with their game and were 3-0 winners whilst the 33rd B and the 76th A had to rely on penalties to settle their encounter with the 76th A eventually triumphing. So the final was between the 14th and the 76th A and after 5 minutes play the two teams could not muster a goal between them and could still not be separated after a further 3 minutes extra time. It was on to the dreaded penalties where the 76th A raced into a lead of 3-1. Back came the 14th to level at 3-3 after 5 penalties per team and we were into a sudden death shoot out. The 14th scored their penalty and unfortunately the 76th A could not manage to do the same and so Grenoside were the winners with St Peter’s the runners up. Well done to all that took part and thanks to Steve for helping me referee and to John from the 14th who tried to keep score. Well done to Eliss form the 61st who picked up the award for the scout showing the most scout like attitude and to Rob from Grenoside who saved a penalty in the shoot out and actually managed to break his arm (we found that out on Saturday) but actually scored the winning penalty. Not too many David Beckham’s about but they all had a good time. Matt 33rd Scout Leader June 21 Beaver Sleepover Once again the District Beaver Sleepover had a good turn out with 40 Beavers from 7 Colonies taking part. The Evening started with a treasure hunt, clues around Chapeltown and Burncross leading us to a park. A nice pleasant stroll back with the only two questions being asked were "when is it supper time" and "how much further is it". Once back it was supper time with hot dogs on the menu. Then "can we get our beds out" cry from the Beavers. Once the beds and the Beavers were ready it was DVD time, but it was about 10pm by then. Don't know what happened this year but they were all asleep by 1.30am and stayed in their beds until 6.30am. Once awake they were up and ready. Things soon packed and breakfast had, it was games until time for the coach to come to take us to The Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The first sculptures we saw were of men without any cloths on, shock and horror from the leaders, laughs and giggles from the Beavers. We walked through a field of sheep which some of the Beavers had never done, and yes trying to avoid the sheep poo but not very well as it is not very easy when the field is completly covered in it, they climbed all over a large log that had fell over years before. Lunch was a picnic on the grass and then another long walk around to the musical trees and on to the natural adventure playground the Beavers realy enjoyed. Then 3.30pm off for home to a drink and biscuit ready to be collected. 40 wore out Beavers and 12 even more wore out leaders. But they all said they had enjoyed it and talked about next time. May 21 Don District Reports Forthcoming Events   DON DISTRICT BECKFORD PEG 2009  Well 12 months ago I asked what I was doing up at 7-30am on a Saturday and 12 months on I found myself doing the same thing as the Beckford Peg competition comes round again. Last year the route was probably too long and this year I was hoping that I’d got the route right and that all the teams would complete the hike and tackle the challenges on the way, and not forget to answer the 11 questions just to test their observation powers as they went round. Of the 15 teams predicted 12 turned up on the day and were set off at 10 minute intervals from Hesley Wood on their challenge to find their way via the 12 checkpoints to hopefully finish at the 105th Headquarters’ having avoided been hit by any flying golf balls on Tankersley Park Golf Course!! (Note to self must remember to email golf secretary and inform him he lost money due to his attitude to me daring to hike across the Course!!) The first checkpoint was quickly found and Mick from the 105th had devised a quiz on Scouting and apparently I’m the UK’s Chief Scout!! Up the hill and onto the golf Course where Tom was found hiding between the fairways with the task of identifying what was in the various boxes. On to checkpoint 3 with Mark and John from the 14th having devised some sort of game based on Catchphrase!! Onto checkpoint 4 where Bob, Jamie and Jamie’s mum (Carol) from the 82nd had them transferring peas using chopsticks!! I believe they were dried peas and not mushy!! Carrying on to Checkpoint 5 where Garry and Lincoln from the 33rd had a river crossing to negotiate, but with a bit of a brain test as you would expect, as the bridge was not quite long enough!! Checkpoint 6 eventually found Chris from the 25th attempting to blow them up with a minefield. I believe he was later joined by Rob, but he wasn’t very successful either as all the kids made it back!! Checkpoint 7 saw the 3 Dan’s from the 231st playing darts, I’m not sure what the kids were doing!! Again they made their way across the golf course without being hit!! Checkpoint 8 saw Mike form the 93rd outside Tankersley Manor building shelters. God knows what the guest turning up for wedding receptions thought. Having paid a number of visits to checkpoint 8 I’m glad I was not relying on them to keep me dry from the rain that kept trying to ruin the event. Checkpoint 9 had Joe testing their observation powers and whether or not they knew the phonetic alphabet, before a long walk to checkpoint 10, wishing Oliver form the 33rd Happy Birthday on the way! Once there Sean had them transferring water from a bucket to a Dixie. Easy I here you shout! However not here as the cups were tied on to string and the string was wrapped round trees! Onto checkpoint 11 having had their adding up skills tested on the way and one again they met John & Mark from the 14th who had them printing the word “Scouts” using potatoes. Ingenious I would never have thought of that one. Finally at checkpoint 12 they encountered Kit and his explorers who had them firing marshmallows at a target!! I heard they had to send out for more marshmallows as a certain leader kept eating them!! Or is that just a vicious rumour then Kit?? Then on to the 105th where a welcome drink was waiting, although I’m not convinced the route was hard enough as some had enough energy left to play footy!! All the teams completed the hike, which means the route was probably about right. All the scores were added up and there was a maximum score available of 640 points. The results were as follows:- 1st 82nd / 93rd Combined 505 pts 2nd 82nd B 503pts 3rd 82nd A 498pts 4th 14th 497pts 5th 33rd A 496pts 6th 231st A 480pts 7th 32nd 479pts 8th 105th 463pts 9th 61st 462pts 10th 25th 461pts 11th 231st B 448pts 12th 33rd C 421pts So with jut 9 points separating the top 5 teams it would appear that Scouting is well and truly alive and kicking in Don District and congratulations to all teams. However I must remind the 14th of the Scout Law, which states that a Scout is careful of all possessions as there failure to ensure their question sheet made it to the end (having left it at checkpoint 12) meant that they failed to win the event. The 11 points they would have scored on these questions not counting as their sheet was eventually brought in by Kit!! Bet they don’t make the same mistake next year!! Thanks to everyone that took part and to Nick & Vera for ensuring that they all safely crossed the A61 without being run over, to all the Leaders who manned the checkpoints or who ran round in cars making sure they were all ok , like Steve and myself did. Without your help the event would not have been the success it was. Thanks Matt Hardman 33rd Scout Leader  Saturday 16th May Beavers and Leaders from 8 Colonies took part in the District Beaver Trip to a place called "Making It" and that is what they did. They each made a model of either a boat, a clock or a rocket, which they could bring home with them along with a certificate to say that they had made it. They also brought home with them a front page cover of a newspaper with their name and a photo of themselves in the headlines. A very good place to take them we all agreed. On the way home we called at Rufford park to let the Beavers have a well earned runabout in the new adventure park, as they had been indoors for long enough. http://www.makingit.org.uk May 18 Chief Scout Bear Grylls Chief Scout Bear Grylls - A lifetime of adventure Bear Grylls will be theUK’s youngest Chief Scout, aged 34. Whether it is crossing oceans in an open boat, scaling Mount Everest or flying a powered paraglider to 29,000ft in the Himalayas, Bear knows a thing or two about adventure. As an ex Special Forces soldier, he is not only known around the world as the host of the hit TV series Born Survivor and Man Vs Wild, he is also an inspirational speaker, best selling author of nine books and a fervent supporter of young people getting out there to experience adventure for themselves. Bear got his taste for the outdoors as a Scout, whilst a young boy. He was taught to climb by his late father on the sea cliffs of the Isle of Wight, and this interest rapidly developed when he left school. His military service saw him trained in combat survival, parachuting, demolitions, trauma medics and mountain warfare as a trooper with 21 SAS. During one parachute jump he sustained a massive injury breaking his back in three places. After intense military rehabilitation, he made a full recovery and went on to become one of the youngest climbers ever to reach the summit of Everest and has led numerous other expeditions around the world. ‘Honoured to be offered this position’ When invited to take on this role with the UK’s largest co-educational youth movement Bear said ‘I feel so honoured to be offered this position, and have always held such admiration for Scouts and all they do around the world. The Scouting Movement is a massive force for good, touching many, many young lives. Above all, it gives millions of kids the chance to live and learn about the wild and to experience real adventure. My hope is to help Scouts of all ages, including adults, to reach their full potential, to follow their dreams and to enjoy the camaraderie that the Scouts is famous for. 'In particular I want to continue the inspirational work that the current Chief Scout Peter Duncan has begun by showing the public how Scouting continues to open young people’s eyes to a world of extraordinary promise and possibilities.' This is not Bear’s first volunteer role. He is also an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust and is Vice President of the Journey of a Lifetime Trust, which helps young people from troubled backgrounds experience the 'journey of a lifetime'. Bear also balances his demanding life with a young family. Married to Shara, he has three sons all aged under six. A global ambassador for a global movement Scouting is a global movement and Bear has travelled extensively to every continent in the world. Known and respected in many countries outside the UK he is truly a global ambassador for a global movement. His languages include Spanish and French, and he has a deep respect for diverse faiths and cultures. ‘I can't wait to meet as many of the UK’s Scouts as I can,’ says Bear. ‘Supporting and representing our members is a huge privilege, and I want all Scouts to know I am here for them and willing to listen and help where I can.’ For more information on Bear Grylls visit his website: beargrylls.com   Bear Grylls will be the new Chief Scout of the UK Scout Association. The famous adventurer takes over when current Chief Scout, former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan, completes his five year tenure in July. When asked why he chose to volunteer for the UK’s largest mixed youth movement, Bear said: ‘In short, because I love adventure and I love hanging out with good friends. For me this is what Scouting is about.’ Born on 7 June 1974, Bear Grylls will be the youngest ever Chief Scout. He first got involved in Scouting aged eight as a Cub Scout. Bear attributes this time as part of the inspiration behind his adult adventures presenting TV shows such as Born Survivor: ‘So much of who we are as an adult is formed when we are kids,’ said Bear. ‘What Scouting says to people is: “it’s okay to go for it in life”. ‘Every child has a right to have an adventure. Life is about grabbing opportunities. The prizes don’t always go to the biggest, the best and the strongest – they go to those who persevere. These are simple life lessons that Scouting teaches people.’ The Chief Scout provides inspiration for the 100,000 adult volunteers involved in Scouting across the UK. The position was created in 1920 with the appointment of Robert Baden-Powell, who founded the Scout Movement in 1908. May 03 Don District News On Saturday 16th May 2009, a team from Don District Scout Fellowship were invited by Sheaf District Scout Fellowship to join them at the 3rd Hazel Grove Scout Headquarters for a  The evening was well hosted by the Hazel Grove District Scout Fellowship and we were made to feel very welcome. Don District team were represented by Sylvia and Chris Bradley, Vera and Nick Nicholson, Deborah and Andrew Papka. A very creditable performance by all the team meant that we were able to return victoriously over the Pennines, winning the quiz with 98 / 125! Our excellent familiarity with pictures of various Davids was matched by our knowledge of Harry Potter characters! It was a great evening out (and it would have been even if we hadn't won). The only downside (if you can call it that) is that our Fellowship have been asked to host the quiz next year!!!!  May 29th-31st Module 16 at Hesley Wood - For any Leader wanting to complete their Nights Away July 4th Modules 1,3 & 4. 10-4pm at Hesley Wood - Basic Training required for all new Leaders before gaining their Warrants. July 5th First Response 1st Aid at Hesley Wood (Course Full) - For Leaders without a 1st Aid Certificate or Leaders renewing their Certificate July 11th Modules 5-9. 9.30-4pm at Hesley Wood - Values in Scouting, Changes in Scouting, Valuing Diversity, Leadership Skills, Working with Adults Sept 11th-13th All Modules (except 1,3,4,10 & 16) at Hesley Wood - This will allow you to attend any Modules you need to complete Sept 20th First Response 1st Aid at Hesley Wood - For Leaders without a 1st Aid Certificate or Leaders renewing their Certificate Sept 18th-20th Module 16 at Hesley Wood - For any Leader wanting to complete their Nights Away Oct 25th Modules 1,3 & 4. 10-4pm at Hesley Wood - Basic Training required for all new Leaders before gaining their Warrants. Nov 1st First Response 1st Aid at Hesley Wood (Limited places left) - For Leaders without a 1st Aid Certificate or Leaders renewing their Certificate To download Training Application Document Click here: To Book a Course ring Hesley Wood County Office on 2467912 or email; training@syscouts.org.uk The aim of these courses;   On Sunday 3rd May 231st Shiregreen Group Celebrated their 70th Birthday 70 years exactly to the day they were formed. Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Leaders entertained with traditional and not so traditional Camp Fire songs to an audience of 170 present and past members,Group Chairman Chris Bradley told of the History of the Group whilst GSL Pete Gowers was Master of Ceremonies, lots of photos and memorabilia to look, a lovely buffet and to finish disco dancing into the night.  Splashdown reaches it's 25th year of water activities at Rother Valley on 26th-28th June. This year will have Mountain Biking, Waterslide, Grass Sledging, Archery, Canoeing, Sailing, Canadian Canoe, Wind Surfing, Raft Race, Row Boats, Katakanu, Pedaloes plus all the fun of the Regatta's. Click here to download all the detailed information New Don District Commissioner NEW DISTRICT COMMISSIONER NOMINATIONS A search to find a new DC for Sheffield Don District is now underway due to the retirement of Jim Carroll. The procedure has changed over the years and it is now a much more open process. To help me I have asked the DC and Chairman to lead a small search group to identify and submit to me their recommendations for consideration as a successor. I now invite you personally to contribute to the search by submitting a nomination (or nominations) of persons you feel should be considered for this appointment. Nominations should be submitted, either by using the enclosed form or by letter in an envelope marked `Personal and Confidential – District Commissioner Nomination’ and send it to: The County Commissioner Hesley Wood Activity Centre White Lane Chapeltown Sheffield South Yorkshire. S35 2YH Nominations should be received on or before 20th May 2009. In order to ensure the widest possible consultation you are asked, in addition to submitting your own nomination to circulate this request for nominations to all members of the District, District and Group Scout Councils within your area or responsibility. This may be verbally, by mail or via newsletter. Please note that in order to ensure confidentiality, and prevent building up of false hopes, nominations should be submitted without approaching the individual concerned. I would therefore ask that you give serious and urgent consideration to people with whom you work in Scouting, at work or in the wider community and to identify anyone who you believe has the qualities to be your District Commissioner. When considering a possible candidate please do not compare them against the current or any previous DCs. At this stage it is important to draw up a list with as wide a cross section of people as possible, so that the search group can begin the process of preparing a shortlist. I am hoping to select someone to take on the role from July to be ready for the September start at which point the new DC will work alongside Jim to transfer everything across smoothly before Jim retires to a new role in December this year. Finally may I remind you that as a recipient of this letter you are likely to be in the best position to know the needs of the district and potential candidates? Please play your part in ensuring that due consideration is given to all possible by submitting your nomination. Thank you in anticipation of your support. Yours sincerely Andy Moore County Commissioner Click here to download DC Nomination Form April 27 St Georges Day Weekend of FunWOW, what a fantastic weekend, around 400 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorers joined by Network, Fellowship and Leaders/Helpers joined in the Celebrations & fun, with the weather staying kind throughout.  96 Scouts from 9 Troops met in Grenoside Woods for a hike back to the 82nd HQ with Fun Bases manned by Don District Explorers, SY Network and The Fellowship along the way. 1st Base of Karaoke had the Scouts making up and singing their own song to any well known tune (well that was the theory), then on to "Find Wally's Car", Emergency Shelter Building, String Trail, Minefield, "Put on as much clothing as possible" (one tried to put slippers on ears) and a Mensa (as if) Quiz! The back for Hot Dogs, Soup and an early bed (but not sleep), up for a beakfast of cereal and a brisk walk to Hesley for the Outdoor Cooking Competition; Results; 1st 82ndC 65pts (3 Max Scores) 2nd 105thA 65pts (2 Max Scores) 3rd 14thA 65pts (1 Max Score) 4th 33rdC 64pts 5th 25th 61pts 6th= 82ndA 64pts 6th= 231stA 60pts 8th 231stC 55pts 9th 33rdB 53pts 10th= 14thB 51pts 10th= 32ndA 51pts 10th= 32ndC 51pts 10th= 231stB 51pts 14th 61st 50pts 15th= 32ndB 48pts 15th= 76thB 48pts 15th= 82ndB 48pts 18th= 33rdA 45pts 18th= 105thB 45pts 20th 76thA 41pts  What is a brunch ? That was the question that I think a lot of scouts and leaders were asking themselves during the past few weeks as they prepared for the District Outdoor Cooking Competition. Some opted for the old favourite of the English Fry-up. Others tried something different from Steak Baguettes through Kebabs via pancakes, Salmon fishcakes and Wraps. One ingenious group even went part backwoods with pizzas (very nice pepperoni). This year we had a record 20 teams competing in the competition. This pushed the ability of Hesley Wood to provide enough altar fires and grids and was a major issue early one in the competition. However when fires had been allocated the cooking started. Most needed no encouragement and help as fire sprung up all over the sites. Soon the smell of bacon (the most beautiful smell in the world ?), sausage, steak were permeating the whole area. The judges were wandering around noting what was being cooked, monitoring how well the teams were working together and having a crafty taste. The judging was a massive endeavour with 20 meals to taste. However somehow the judges managed to taste yet another plateful served up by the expectant scouts. Then it was on to the washing up, the task likely to send a scout running away in fear! The well deserved winners were the team from the 61st Wincobank. 105B were second and 105A were third. (Full results and scores to be added later) Many congratulations to all the patrols and scouts who took part. All the food tasted this year was to a high standard and more importantly tasty! More photo's & video on the 32nd Stocksbridge website  Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorers were mixed together from different Groups to form a Team to make new friends and work their way around fun bases of Welly Wanging, Penalty Shoot Out, Sedan Chair Building ,Jousting, String Trail, Grass Skiing, Fishing, Water Pipe, Tow The Van, Frisbee, Make a Cuppa, Croc Swamp, F1 Pit Stop, Crisp Tasting, Bush Tucker Trial, Transfer of Water (what was that tea spoon for?) and many more to fill a sunny April afternoon. Teams worked well together and most teams entered into the spirit of completing these fun tasks without adult help making new friends of all ages along the way. And the winners; Team Leader: Alex Marsden Don Explorers 14th Scout Oliver Clark 105th Scout Thomas Cone 14th Cub Matthew Barrow 82nd Cub Jenson Barber 105th Cub Alex Cone 82nd Beaver Toby Brammer 82nd Beaver William Lunn   The service was opened by Vicar Ian Smith who talked about people who inspire us, then on to District Commissioner Jim Carroll who for his last time as DC led the renewal of Promise for all sections aided by ADC's Sylvia West for Beavers and Andrew Papka for Cubs, having slightly different Promises.   County Commissioner Andy Moore presented ACC/ADC Sylvia West with The Silver Acorn once of the highest awards in Scouting only to be presented for "distinguished and outstanding service" and Sylvia has provided Scouting in the Don District and beyond with exactly that, serving as ADC for Beavers from the sections inception into Scouting for over 20 years. Sylvia's organisational skills are legendary, her devotion and dedication to her roles within Scouting would mean there was never a more deserving recipient of such a prestigous award. A picture paints a thousand words;  ACC Mike Frost awarded 'Paddy' Farr Assistant Scout Leader from the 105th High Green his Medal of Merit for "outstanding service", Paddy remains one of the most popular leaders in Don District Scouting and his love of Mars Bars is known amongst all of the Districts Scouts. Paddy's picture says it all!  Back to DC Jim Carroll to present 30 Years Service Awards to 32nd Stocksbridge Cub Leader Christine Tazzyman, 32nd Stocksbridge GSL Keith Tazzyman and 105th High Green Scout Leader Mick Pears. All where heard to declare it seemed like yesterday!  Jim then presented Wood Badges for the completion of their Training in their respective sections to Bob Thurlby SY County Network Leader, 'Kit' Levesley Don District Explorer Commissioner and Steve Clayton Scout Leader at the 82nd Chapeltown.   To close this fantastic weekend Dave (GSL from Royston) led over 400 keen people in Scouting to a medley of fun songs and merriment, traditional and unique to Scouting throughout the World finishing with all humming 'Camp Fires Burning' whilst Dave recited The Scout Promise to close.  A HUGE thank you to anyone who made this 24 hours of Celebrations possible, The District Teams who put the events together, The Leaders from all sections who provided the bases with help from the Fellowship, Network and Explorers. Thanks to all the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers who entered into the spirit of the events and finally a special thanks to The Explorers who worked tirelessly throughout the weekend and delivered at all 4 events and still catered for over 150 people on Saturday evening. Don District Doing & Achieving it's BEST! |
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