Scout News

Scout News - 1st Stretford (Longford) Scout Group
Sunday, 19 January 2025 18:37

Fires, Teamwork, and Toasted Marshmallows

Our Scouts kicked off the new term with an exciting fire lighting session that put their teamwork and resilience to the test. Working in small groups, they set about gathering natural kindling and sharing tasks to create their very own campfires. It was amazing to see their determination and cooperation as they tackled the challenge together. As sparks turned into flames, the Scouts celebrated their success with big smiles, knowing they had achieved something special as a team. The session didn’t just teach practical skills; it also highlighted the importance of patience, communication, and supporting one another.

Once the fires were roaring, the real treat began—roasting marshmallows! Carefully toasting them over the open flames, the Scouts shared laughter and enjoyed the reward of their hard work. The snowy weather during the first week back added an extra challenge, but our Scouts proved their mettle, lighting their fires despite the cold and damp conditions. Their perseverance shone through, demonstrating that no weather can dampen the spirit of adventure. From teamwork to toasted marshmallows, this session was the perfect way to start the term and set the tone for the exciting weeks ahead.

Sunday, 22 December 2024 20:27

Laser Quest, Climbing Challenges, and Pizza!

It wouldn’t be Christmas without the Longford Scouts’ Christmas party, and this year’s celebration was no exception!

The Scouts kicked off the festivities with an action-packed session at Laser Quest in the Trafford Centre, where they ran, dodged, and zapped each other in a thrilling battle through the arena. After working up a serious appetite, they tackled the endless climbing wall before heading to Pizza Hut to refuel and compare their Laser Quest scores.

The evening was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of pizza, with ice cream to top off the night. It was the perfect way to wrap up another busy year for the group, and everyone left with full stomachs and smiles, already looking forward to next year’s Christmas party!

The Scouts recently took part in an eye-opening activity to understand the journey of a banana from plantation to supermarket. In a Fairtrade simulation, Scouts were assigned roles such as banana workers, plantation owners, shippers, and retailers to explore how the price of a banana—set at 30p—is divided along the supply chain.

Through negotiations, Scouts discovered that the majority of the banana’s cost goes to supermarkets and importers, with workers and farmers receiving the smallest share. This highlighted the unfair distribution of profits and sparked discussions about the role of Fairtrade, which ensures workers earn a living wage.

The Scouts reflected on whether they would be willing to pay more for Fairtrade bananas to support fair wages and improve conditions for workers. The activity helped them understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions and the importance of ethical trade practices.

Sunday, 22 December 2024 20:22

Widegames

Under a starry sky, the Scouts set off on a thrilling adventure at Turn Moss, turning the area into a playground for exciting nighttime wide games. As dusk fell, they prepared for a series of challenges that tested their agility, teamwork, and ability to stay hidden. With the moon casting a soft light over the field, the Scouts plunged into games like Capture the Flag, using stealth and strategy to navigate the terrain. Split into teams, they worked together to outwit their opponents, relying on clever communication and quick thinking to secure the win. The air was filled with laughter and the occasional rustling of leaves as the Scouts embraced the excitement, strengthening their bonds and honing their strategic skills in the process.

On a crisp evening, the Scouts of Longford Scout Group swapped the comfort of their HQ for the excitement of the great outdoors. Armed with torches and a sense of adventure, they embarked on a thrilling night hike around Turn Moss, along the canal, and through Sale Water Park.

The group braved the darkness, navigating winding paths and taking in the serene beauty of the moonlit surroundings. The hike offered more than just fresh air—it was an opportunity to test their navigational skills, work as a team, and enjoy a break from screens and everyday routines.

 Longford Scouts is an active Scout Group based at the Ranche in Longford Park, Stretford in Manchester. We accept boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 18. We are a registered charity.