Walking the Thames in a day – 1st Claygate Scout Group tackles epic challenge
It was tired feet but glad hearts all round as the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers of 1st Claygate Scout Group completed their epic 184 mile Thames Path Trek on Saturday, 7 July.
Walking simultaneously, 25 teams from the Scout group covered the length of the River Thames between them in one day, from its source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier – over 368,000 steps in all.
The young people undertook the challenge to raise funds to extend Claygate Scout Centre providing more space for the group’s activities and more Scouting opportunities in the village.
Group Scout Leader Hugh Gostling said: “The Thames Path Trek has been a real group effort for the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and the Explorers and Network of 1st Claygate. After months of organisation, it has been great to see the enjoyment and sense of achievement amongst the teams who have taken part.
“The 1st Claygate Scout Group is a very active part of the community in Claygate and extending our facilities will allow more young people to be a part of Scouting, have new experiences, learn life skills and make great friendships.”
A team of volunteers organised transport and logistics for the 25 teams to walk their allotted stretch of the Thames, with buses, trains and cars called into service to get the teams in place for their effort. Sponsorship of the minibuses used was secured from Dairy Crest and the cost of a base in Oxford was covered by Catling & Co.
To find out more about the 1st Claygate Thames Path Trek or to donate to the group’s cause, please visit www.claygatescouts.org/TPT.