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WOODSMOKE
Federation du Scoutisme Europeen (F.S.E)
EUROPEAN SCOUT FEDERATION (British Association)
Founder Member of the Confederation of European Scouts
(C.E.S)
Issue 110 VOL 1/14
Issue 110 VOL 1/14
2
The European Scout Federation (British Association)
The European Scout Federation (FSE) is a Scout organisation for males and females and is composed of the following sections: Otters, Wolf Cubs, Scouts, Rovers and Rangers. Our organisation keeps to the traditional methods of scouting that the founder Robert Baden-Powell set out in “SCOUTING for BOYS”. We are completely independent of the other British Scouts, (Scout Association, B-P Scouts, British Boy Scouts, Guide Association and other independents). The FSE is not in opposition or rival to the other Scout Organisations in Great Britain or Europe. It is a medium for those who prefer its methods. The Patrol system for example is used for its original purposes, to teach leadership, resourcefulness and obedience. We retain Baden-Powell’s progressive training system of Tenderfoot, Second class and First class badges. It is out opinion that the original tests and uniform provide a unique appeal because they do not favour those youngsters with academic intelligence, sporting skills or plenty of money. The ‘old’ ideas of wood smoke are not necessarily “old hat”. OUR SECTIONS: OTTERS (boys or girls) 5 years to 7 years WOLF CUBS (boys or girls) 7 years to 11 years SCOUTS (boys or girls) 11 years to 16 years ROVERS AND RANGERS (boys or girls) 16 years with no upper limit If you would like to know more about the European Scout Federation please go to the FSE Website www.fse-scouts.eu or write to: European Scout Federation (British Association) Registered Office: c/o Nigel Wright Accounting, Branwell House, Park Lane, Keighley BD21 4QX Or contact your nearest Province Commissioner: Central Province – Derbyshire and Lincolnshire Laura Thompson, Province Commissioner, Tel: 07738981442 East Pennine Province – Yorkshire and Tyneside Joanna Ward, Province Commissioner, Tel: 01924 525152 or 07833490442 Iceni Province – Cambridgeshire Hazel Blackley, Province Commissioner, Tel: 07834528900 West Pennine Province – Lancashire and Cumbria Linda Osgood, Province Commissioner, Tel: 01484 845152 or 07984279984 The FSE (British Association) is a member of the Confederation of European Scouts (CES), for more information about the CES log on to www.ces-scout.org
3
What’s in store?
Page Contents 1. Front Cover
2. FSE Introduction and Contacts Page
3. Contents Page
4. Photo Page
5. 1st. Lancashire lays down the sporting gauntlet!
6. Congratulations!!! + Rover/Ranger Reunion - 2014
7. Rover/Ranger Reunion – Fright Night!
8. Rover/Ranger Reunion – Fright Night 2!
9. Puzzle page
10. My Rover investiture!! + WPP Otter Scavenger hunt
11. Patrol Leader training
12. Patrol Leader training (cont.)
13. Make a camp fire blanket
14. West Pennine Province Wolf Cub hike
15. The Blackley Gang Show
16. ScoutNet 2014
17. 2nd Lancs., anniversary + Puzzle page answers
18. F.S.E Dinner Dance
19. Dinner Dance (cont.)
20. Rover Commissioner’s report
21. Rover report (cont.)
22. 2nd & 5th Lancs & St. Andrew’s Otters presentation night
23. Seminoles St. George’s Day meal
24. St. George’s Day parade
25. St. Georg’s Day parade (cont.)
26. National Commissioner’s report
27. National Commissioner’s report (cont.)
28. Back cover
Issue 109 Vol 3/13 is now available on the FSE Website: www.fse-scouts.eu
Bored stiff? …
… then look inside your latest
“Woodsmoke”!
Don’t hang around ……
…… send your articles and
photo’s to “Woodsmoke”
NOW!
See pages 6 - 8 Send your articles & photo’s to:
Kevin Smith,
49 Marlfield Street,
MANCHESTER,
M9 4BA.
See page 22
See page 9.
See page
Warning!
This issue may
contain
SPAM!
4
Woodsmoke photo’ page
Send in your photo’s from your Colony, Pack, Troop or Crew night, or events you have
organized or attended, and we will try to print them in a future issue of “Woodsmoke”
5
1st. Lancashire lays down the sporting gauntlet!
Football:
The West Pennine Province’s 2013 5-a-side competition was changed to later on in the year, due to a
crossover of events. Unfortunately, this led to only two Wolf Cub packs being able to compete (who else
but the 1st. and 5
th. Lancs?!) It was decided to play a one-off final of twenty minutes each way and, as
expected, the game was well contested. Who needs players on mega bucks? Come and see a 1st. v 5
th.
Lancs. Match; always hard fought, but still in the realm of sporting lines. The 1st. were eventual winners,
but truly respected our opposition. It is now 7 years on the bounce for our Cub pack!
The Scout competition was held later that day. Unfortunately our great friends from over the hills, the
Yorkshire puds (always a pleasure to compete against), couldn’t come. Still the 5th. Lancs. put in two
teams and the 2nd
. Lancs one, so we had a few games to play, the idea being that all would play each
other, with the top two playing in the Final. Some slick and gritty football was played which could easily
grace the pitches of Brazil this year! The 1st. and 5
th. made it to the Final (deja vu? … United and City eat
your hearts out!) The crowd, by this time, had grown … would we need the white horse? (that was for
our older readers!) Back and forth the match went, with subs. being made and even oranges at half time!
What more could you ask for? … oh yes! – the odd controversial decision from the F.A. referee! The 5th
.,
who were the holders, fought hard, but were finally overcome by the superior 1st. Lancs! (Basically, we
got more goals than they did!) Well played, both teams. Let’s hope this year even more teams get
involved, and we have a great tournament (even better than The World Cup!) Cheers for all who took part
– Cubs, Scouts, leaders, parents and even the ref.(Tom)!
See you in Brazil!
Badger.
Track and field: WPP Sports Day … “Be Prepared”!
After a fantastic 2012, winning the Cub, Scout and Group trophies, the bar had been set high. Could we
do it again? After careful consultations with physios, diet experts and ex-athletes, we set about our
training programme for 2013. Bowley, Dunham Park and Hebden Hey were picked as our training
camps.
Come the day, come the Mohawks! And what a day it was … loads of other Groups and parents … the
venue, Heaton Park, our home turf … both Cub and Scout events fiercely contested. It was great to see
the girl Scouts up there with the boys and … dare I say it? … sometimes even better! Linda was admin.
bod on the day, checking the results and the names of winners, etc, for the certificates at the end of the
day. This caused a little confusion for, if you know us at the Mohawks, we don’t have real names, but
nick names! So, at the end of the day, the results read as Popeye, Flipper, Cheeko … you get my drift!
The final results came through and, brilliantly, we had won again! All the training had paid off, and all
who had taken part, winner or not, had had a great day out together. All we need to do now isto plan for
2014, with Bradley Wood, Dunham Park, Middlewood and Fanwood having been chosen as our training
camps.
Badger (ex-athlete).
The computer user’s problem …
West Pennine Province – 2014
Football Competition – May 10th
.
Sports Day – July 12th
.
Venue for both: Heaton Park
6
Rover/Ranger Reunion – 2014
This year’s Rover/Ranger Reunion was run by the Impeesa & Pynot Crew at Glenbrook in Derbyshire.
After the usual late night catching up on Friday, Saturday’s programme began with the Conference and
some new discussion topics, including changing the format again for next year, the possibility of an
online forum for sharing thoughts and ideas throughout the year and some great ideas for this year’s
Winter Projects. We also had a chance to see all of the “F.S.E. Elevator Pitch” entries from Crews around
the country, which should now be available on the website (the highlight is the Seminoles “Blooper” reel!
The afternoon took us to Buxton for a town trail and
AquaZumba at Buxton baths. On our return we all got dressed
up for the evening’s entertainment; a Haunted House party!
This included some very messy games, the shortest straws
being drawn by those chosen to play a very literal game of
Hangman! Wrong answers resulted in being lowered by rope,
from the ceiling, closer and closer to paddling pools full of
water, spaghetti, baked beans, mushy peas, soup and apples!
The last game of the night involved eating various cookies,
made especially by Ellen and Rachel. The contestants could hope for chocolate chips, popping candy, or
Smarties, but could just as easily end up with garlic, chilli or jellied eels!
It was another late night and ‘though we danced and dry-land
Zumba’d into the early hours, we all made it to church on
Sunday morning!
Back at Glenbrook, we
carved faces in
watermelons (disguised
as pumpkins!) then
lined them up in front of
assorted teams, who
then bombarded them
with “homemade” catapults, making as much mess as was
perhaps possible, using the equipment provided!
As always, it was nice to have such a strong turnout from our European friends, with a huge contingent of
Dutch, as well as German and Spanish Rovers, travelling over especially. Overall, we hope a good
weekend was had by all!
Rachel Fearn (Impeesa & Pynot Crew) Special thanks to Floren Vanolden, from the Netherlands, for
supplying all the photographs on this and the following two pages.
CONGRATULATIONS!!! … on behalf of F.S.E.(G.B.)
to Justyna (the long-suffering wife of the current president of the
C.E.S.) and Wouter Aarts, on the arrival of their first-born :
Robert Lambertus Jan.
Robert was born in Zoetermeer (The Netherlands) at 6.59am. on
Monday, March 31st. and weighed 3220gms. (7lbs. 1oz. for our more
elderly readers!) Our best wishes go to them all!
7
Rover/ Ranger Reunion – Fright Night!
8
Rover/Ranger Reunion – Fright Night 2!
9
????? PUZZLE PAGE ?????
Which piece of spaghetti is hanging
off the top edge of the plate?
See page for the answers.
What are the dates of the
birth and death of B-P?
What is the use of the bowline?
What makes you a Scout?
Which of Ash, Alder and Elder
would you use to light a fire?
How many stars are there in
the Plough?
What are bends when they are
not turns in a road?
Which of the dogs pictured above are identical?
10
My Rover
Investiture!!
On Saturday, 18th.
January, 2014, I was
invested as a SEMINOLE
ROVER by my RSL, Jad.
McCormack, at Bradley
Wood Scout campsite.
Before I was invested, I
had to decide and do a
range of tasks to get an
understanding of what
Rovering is, and it makes
a difference to your life.
I started off by choosing
my sponsor – Mr. Bob.
Downing, who has guided
me through Scouts,
helping me to achieve my
B-P Award all those years
ago. He was the perfect
sponsor to choose, as we
have a good Scouting connection and history.
During the course of my squireship I produced a log book, made a woodpile stand for our Rover Hut, read Rovering
To Success and familiarised myself with several other Scouting books to further my knowledge. The biggest tasks
Bob. set me were to pull the link between 2nd
./5th. Lancs. and our Mauritius partnership Group back together and to
take a more hands-on approach to becoming the future Scout Master of the 5th. Lancashire Scout Troop. After
completing everything on my list, it was time to undertake my vigil! I was advised to do this in a quiet and relaxing
place so that I could concentrate, and make sure I was ready to be invested. I definitely chose the most quiet and
relaxing place … that’s all I’m saying!
The day arrived for investiture, and everything went to plan. The ceremony was attended by 10 Seminoles, 3 White
Rose and 1 Inca, and it was a GREAT feeling to have my Crew and closest friends there to share the moment with
me. I am so proud to be part of a Crew with so much history. Thank you to everyone who attended, and a massive
BRAVO to Bob, for being my sponsor. You are a legend!
Chris. Woods – Seminole Rover Crew.
The computer user’s nightmare!
On Sunday March 16th. 17 Otters, from St.
Andrew’s and St. John Fisher’s Colonies took
part in the West Pennine Province’s Otter
Scavenger Hunt, following clues and finding
Easter eggs. The weather was cold but sunny, and
the chocolate was a great reward! Oh, and the
answer to the age old question “How many Otters
fit into a ‘phone box?” is six! … Farmer Brown
Did you know?....
The average honey bee will only produce
about one twelfth of a teaspoon of honey
in its lifetime.
11
Patrol Leader Training
Following previous P/L training weekends, it became apparent that we needed to expand some areas and
concentrate on others. We have been working for some time now on restructuring and reviewing the
programme, and are happy to announce that this has now been rolled out.
We have split the training down into four parts, to cover lots more material and to ensure that we provide the
best possible training for our Patrol Leaders.
Level 1 - The Essentials … This looks at the patrol system and what makes a good P/L, and demonstrates
the essential practical skills such as choosing a campsite ,building a camp, fire craft and preparing meals
Level 2 – Standard level … This takes Scouts through all aspects of hiking, from map and compass work,
to how to pack a rucksack and look after feet.
Level 3 – Advanced … This gives Scouts the experience of a Venturer hike, with incidents along the way,
an overnight camp and further elements of the Venturer proficiency badge.
Level 4 – Expert … First aid training from a professional trainer, with the opportunity to gain recognised
qualification.
The four parts do not have to be completed in any particular order and will all be run over the course of a
calendar year. This should give most Patrol Leaders the opportunity to complete all four over the length of
their “career”.
Two down & two to go! I’m pleased to say that, so far this year, we have completed two of the above mentioned levels.
Twelve Scouts completed a two days (Level 4) first aid training course at Hope Valley Collage, gaining very
important life skills and the Ambulance proficiency badge. Lots of new friendships were made, as well as
some old friends reunited, over burgers and a game of bowling.
The second instalment of the training was Level 2 (Standard level), which was held at Woolley Edge
campsite. This took the Scouts through all aspects of hiking; from route cards to packing for the journey,
map and compass skills and foot care.The Scouts planned, took part in, and completed the 2nd
. Class hike.
As a contrast, the night time activity was “film night”. A quiz was held and the winning patrol got to
choose a film to watch. Unfortunately, they chose a completely unfathomable film which nobody
understood, but the popcorn helped! The next day three patrols set off on their hikes, using their newly
acquired skills. Two patrols returned exactly on time. However, mentioning no names, one patrol decided
to go on a little “detour” for a few hour …. Emma, Sasha, Kevin, Will!
Fun was had by all, and we’re already looking forward to the next event. (continued)
Tadge (a.k.a. Anthony Clayton) – H.Q. Commissioner (Scouts)
12
Patrol Leader Training (continued)
More detailed information about the remaining courses will be sent out as each approaches.
Leaders with Scouts wishing to attend one or both of these events should contact Tadge to book places.
Finally, remember … “The patrol system is the one essential feature in which Scout training differs from
all other organisations.” … “The patrol method is not A way to operate a Scout Troop. It is the ONLY
way. Unless the patrol method is in operation, you really don’t have a Scout Troop.”
Tadge – H.Q. Commissioner (Scouts)
PLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPL
Did you know … ?
Future training events :
Level 1 - 31st. May / 1
st. June …
venue to be announced.
Level 3 – August … actual date
and venue to be announced.
Now, just make a note of this …
Verena Borger and Wouter Aarts (C.E.S. vice
president and president) with Cubs from the 5th
.
Lancs pack, during their recent visit to Manchester.
The small African island of Zanzibar sparked the shortest war in history, when it defied the
might of the British Army in1896. After the death of Sultan Hamad, his relative Khaled seized the
throne with German help. Angered, the British started bombing the island on August 22nd
. After
thirty eight minutes, Khaled surrendered!
13
Did you know … ?
Badges, such
as those
shown
above, are
ideal for
decorating
your
blanket.
These, and
others, can
be bought
from the
Badge
Department.
(Ask your
leaders for
details.)
In “Scouting for Boys” B-P says “Camp Fire
is one of the happiest hours of camp.
Songs, recitations and small plays follow
each other on the programme.”
Instead of a chapter, B-P calls each section of
“Scouting For Boys” a Camp Fire Yarn.
Making a camp fire
blanket is one of the
requirements of the
Camp Fire Leader
proficiency badge.
14
West Pennine Province Wolf Cub Hike – Saturday, March 29th
, 2014
The weeks leading up to the event were cold, wet and dreary – not looking good.
Girls Akela, 6th
. Lancs, agonised over the pre-planned route but came up with an alternative one which was
about the same duration and distance. The day itself was a perfect day for a hike. Cool, clear, dry, with a
little breeze to fill your sail, jiffy you along. RV was St. John Fisher church, home of 6th
./15th
. Lancs.
The turnout was marvellous, with 29 boy/girl Cubs from 2nd
, 5th
, and 6th
./15th
. Lancs. packs, and their
leaders, one Scout and Scout leaders from 5th
. Lancs., the “glamorous ladies” of the Inca Ranger crew plus,
dare I say it, our NC came along for the “ride”. Girls Akela, 6th
. Lancs. gave us a briefing about the route,
and any risks, then boys Akela, 15th
. Lancs, led the way and “your truly,
Shere Khan, was “tail end Charlie”.
We walked beside Rochdale Canal as far as Hopwood woods and the Ship
Inn, where we crossed over to the motorway, past farms and along the
path leading to Tandle Hill picnic area, where we had lunch. The Cubs
were given time to play on the adventure park, and leaders rested, before
we started the next stage of the walk.
After a detour through the woods, where the Cubs found sticks of various
sizes, we climbed up many steps to reach the monument and trig. point on
Tandle Hill. There we had our “photo’ call”
and young Rovers tried to see how many of
them could balance on top of the trig. Point.
Four was the Limit!
The group then started the down-hill walk back to the motorway bridge,
where the Cubs were challenged to see how many silver cars passed under
them. We then made our way back to the canal and, after a five miles circular
walk, returned to St. John Fisher church. Some tired Cubs (and leaders!), but all enjoyed the day.
Thank you to all those who took part and made the day a success.
Shere Khan (a.k.a. Chris. Dakin) – 15th
. Lancashire Group.
NATIONAL OTTER TRIP Saturday, 8
th. June – 2014 … Chestnut Centre, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Derbyshire.
Bring a packed lunch and meet at the Centre at 10.45am.
15
The Blackley Gang Show
For the last few years the 2
nd. And 5
th. Lancs. Groups, together with the minister and members of the
congregation of St. Andrew’s church, Blackley, have staged pantomimes. These have been written,
directed and produced by Linda Osgood, 2nd
. Lancs. GSM and West Pennine Province commissioner. By
way of a change, it was decided this year to stage a Gang Show. Each section of the two Groups, together
with members of the congregation, was given a time slot, with the remit to fill it as each saw fit with song,
dance and/or sketches. These were linked together by Linda, with musical routines featuring all the cast
members. This was a huge gamble, as the only time anyone knew what anyone else was doing, and the
show was seen in its entirety, was at the dress rehearsal! Sadly this year’s show was Linda’s final curtain
as, following it, she has retired from the lime light.
Well, this year’s show has been and gone and gosh
was it good! A huge thank you to Linda for doing
the panto. for so long. It’s a shame you’re retiring,
but hopefully someone else will pick up the task
and show it some love, as you have Linda.
And wow, I don’t think it has ever been so much
fun! Some of the sketches were amazing! It’s a
shame you can’t watch the show and be in it, but
from feedback, it was one night to remember. We
had a dragon swooping down over members of the
audience and nibbling their hair, a special guest
appearance from Buster Bear with the Otters, the
Incas spiced things up with their version of
“Britain’s got talent” and the church put on some of
its own acts. Indelibly etched on people’s minds
must be the sight of Graham Gordon dressed (over
the top in more ways than one!) as a “lady of the
night” who, together with Nick, a congregation
member, dressed as an extremely dowdy cleaning
lady, gave a rendition of the Beatles “Hard day’s
night”. For many, the highlight of the show was a
sketch featuring a lowly peasant boy trying to get
past the king and his bodyguard in order to win the
hand of the fair princess. Nick Waite and Jordon
played, at some point, all four parts, including the
costume changes, despite being on stage for the
entire sketch! It really was a night to be there! And
yes … there were a few hiccups, including Ian, our
vicar, giving the final speech midway into the
show! Maybe his watch was a bit fast!
The singing wasn’t too bad either (I think there
were still a few windows left by the end). Even
Jad. got on stage, to celebrate his birthday. Not that
he had much choice, as the show was stopped until
he appeared! 67 was it Jad? (he, he, he!) Anyway, it really was a good night and I’m sure everyone enjoyed
it. I hope next year’s Gang Show is just as good. It may even need a new venue, or two nights, as this is the
third year in a row where we have filled the church hall.
Well done to all who participated … you all did a fantastic job! Blue Whale.
16
ScoutNet – 2014 … Savio House, Bollington, Cheshire
For some time it had been Brian Cockburn’s plan to hold ScoutNet in the
U.K. After a lot of searching, and with help from Karen Alsop, Christine
(Teapot) Dakin and Kevin Smith, dates and a venue were eventually
settled on. Savio House, a retreat centre in Bollington, was to be home to
the team for a weekend. Weeks before, Brian came to Manchester, and
with Kevin and the Dakins, planned a town trail around Macclesfield, the
town nearest to Savio House, and ensured that the visitors from
Germany, Poland and The Netherlands would be able to get to the venue
by their chosen transport.
Our Dutch friends came over the day before and spent Thursday night in
Manchester, meeting up with British Rover friends – then on to
Bollington, where they met up with other ScoutNetters. By Friday
evening everyone had arrived and our U.K. team (Brian, Karen, Teapot,
Ann and Chris.) helped them to settle in. Amanda Clayton and Louise Rooney came later, to help, join in the
fun and meet up with old friends. After supper, Brian introduced the weekend and the planned activities
Started. Each country had been asked to run a game – one suitable for Cubs and Scouts, that could be played
indoors or outside. One, a compass game, involved balloons being placed around the room. Paper arrows
were made and fired down plastic tubes at them, once compass co-ordinates were correct. Very mad, but
very enjoyable.
On Saturday, after breakfast, the German
delegation tested the teams by erecting an “electric
fence” and organising a sense training game –
sweets being the prize! By lunchtime everyone had
set off for Macclesfield to take part in the town
trail. Nat. Horan and Rick. Early joined up with
Brian to help with transport where needed.
Saturday evening was spent playing English pub.
Games – floor snakes and ladders/skittles/
dominoes/pool and card games – with background
music provided our German friends. Danny and
Finnley came along to join in the fun.
On Sunday, after
breakfast, Teapot
showed everyone
how to play
“Dead Ant Tig”
which had them
running around a
field and acting
quite mad – very
enjoyable! This
was followed by
a walk up to White Nancy, a monument high on a hill top and visible from the House. This blew any
cobwebs away, and completed the weekend’s activities. During the next couple of hours Rick, Brian and
Chris. ferried people to Manchester airport whilst the others helped to clear up. Homeward bound for all,
except Einstein who stayed overnight with the Dakins, and was deposited at the railway station next
morning. Teapot.
17
Answers to the puzzles on page 9:
Spaghetti … D
Spot the difference …
Initials changed on mug
Left-hand leaf altered
Tent flap altered
Ridge of tent lower
Right-hand Y-support turned
Skyline altered on right
Guy not round left-hand tent peg
No laces on left-hand Scout’s shoe
Lid missing from cooking pot
Shadow on lower right broken
Scouting quiz:
Feb. 22nd
, 1857; Jan. 8th, 1941
A loop that won’t slip – useful for rescue work
The Promise you take
Ash
7
Type of knot/form of paralysis suffered by divers
if they ascend too quickly
Spot the dogs: … D and F are identical
There is a possibility of running two PTCs
this year: one at the end of August and the
other in early November. Possible venues
are Cumbria and Gloucestershire. If you
have any dates free around 9th
, 16th
. or 30th
.
August, and 8th
. or 15th
. November, please
let me know when you are free
Tony Ward
You’ve either got it, or you haven’t!
18
F.S.E Dinner Dance
The second bi-annual F.S.E. dinner dance was held on Saturday, April 5
th, at the Village Hotel in Ashton,
near Manchester. The Inca Ranger Crew had offered to host the event, as it coincided with the crew’s 40th
.
anniversary. We knew it would be the perfect way to combine our celebration with an evening of fund
raising and fun.
The venue was booked and the invitations sent out, then we had to wait. Would we sell enough tickets?
Would people want to come? We were not disappointed! Attendance was even better than the previous
dinner dance, and the whole organisation showed its support.
Preparations took place over the winter, with the whole crew getting stuck in. You know the Incas! We
couldn’t resist adding a bit of sparkle and decoration on the night, with balloons and diamantes. The scene
was set!
The three course dinner was spot on; the
venue cold not have done more to help. We
all enjoyed the trip down memory lane
looking at the photo’ presentation, and then
we were on to the moment everybody had
been waiting for – the raffle! Thank you so
much for your generosity in donating raffle
prizes and buying tickets. Pauline’s offer of a
stay in her Spanish villa blew us away!
(Congratulations Kevin … I’m sure you
won’t be short of offers of company!)
Then we came to the most important part of
the evening – the cheque for James’s Journey.
It was our pleasure and honour to present
Mark (Bart) Simpson with £1357! A fantastic
achievement for such a worthy cause. The DJ then through to the small hours. Lots of people were strutting
their stuff and letting their hair down … what a night we had!
The Incas - organisers and hosts of the
F.S.Es second bi-annual dinner dance.
This year’ chosen recipient of the evenings
fund raising. James is the son of Mark (Bart)
Simpson, a founder member of the 1st. Lancs.
Tomahawk Rover Crew.
Thanks to everyone’s generosity, the magnificent
sum of £1357 was raised towards James’s Journey!
19
Dinner dance (continued)
It was quite an emotional night, all in all. Relief it was over and had been a success, immense pride in our
organisation and families and friends, shock and humility at the amount of money raised and sadness that it
was all over.
We can’t wait for the next one!
Amanda Clayton (Inca Ranger Crew)
West Pennine Province held a Rover/Ranger
Zumba night at St. Andrew’s church hall on
Thursday, March 20th
, between 7 & 9pm.. This
was enjoyed by everyone who attended, and will
certainly be happening again in the near future.
Thank you to Keri Alldrit for running the class –
you really did a great job. Chris.
The computer user’s downfall!
The surprise of something unexpected slipping
through the net!
20
Rover Commissioner’s report
Reunion: A huge “thank you” to Impeeza Pynot Crew for hosting this year’s Reunion – a great theme and a fantastic
programme! I doubt Buxton swimming pool has ever seen such a strange bunch of people descend on it, to
take part in AquaZumba … I think Keri was moments from taking over!
A long conference this year, but some great discussions. It was good to see the different debates going on
with each of the age groups. I hope that everyone felt that we came to reasonable conclusions to most of the
discussions, and that it was enjoyed by all.
I am now starting to put together next year’s conference, so if there is a workshop you would like to see,
please get in touch. Tell me what you would like to do; even if it seems farfetched, it may just be that you
are the only one willing to mention it. I need your help to make it worthwhile for all. Thank you all for your
valuable input, to conference and to Rovering.
Good luck to The Knights of Ni for this year’s moot, and to the Seminoles for next year’s Rover/Ranger
Reunion.
Winter Projects results: Crew Hobbies &
interest
Scout
Craft
Culture Total
Impeeza Pynot 47.4 51.4 50.5* 149.3**
Navajo 25.6 51.5 41.8 118.9
Buccaneer 46.3 47 x 93.3
Inca 39.6 53.4* x 93
Seminole 56* 41 40 137 X – No entry * Section winner ** Overall winner
My visit with the Manchester crews: On1st./2
nd. April my Scouts were taking part in Patrol Leader training in Hope. “What has that got to do
with Rovers?” I hear you say. Well, as Tadge had kindly advised us that there was no need for leaders to be
present, I thought “What can I do instead?” A visit to Manchester seemed to be my best thought, so a text
was sent to all the rover leaders in the City, asking to spend time with each of them, just to let me know
what was happening!
So, on the morning of the 1st, we picked up the Scouts, got to
Hope for 10am,handed over consent forms and picked up a
straggler (Danny Hodby seems to get everywhere these days!)
Then me, Hazel and Danny headed over to Manchester to meet in
“the gravel car park” (?!?) at 11am. (I was a little late!) When we
arrived, there was a good group of Incas, Seminoles and Navajos
to greet us, and we set off on a town trail. Once in town, we were
met by some of the Tomahawks. It was a great day, full of
chatting, laughter and exploring Manchester, and it was good to
see all the crews together, and getting along. The day culminated
in a lovely little pub, where we filled the back room and ate some
very expensive chips! However, a great day was had by all, and it
was great getting to know the crews better.
The Seminoles then took us to a museum in Manchester, by way
of a bus lane and a £50 fine! (Thanks, Chris. I guess the yellow
sponge didn’t help us after all!)
21
Rover report (cont.)
We explored the museum, making sure we made the most of all the kids sections! The three of us then went
to Jad’s, had a quick change, met up with the Tomahawks again and headed out for a lovely curry … one of
the best I’ve had! The Tomahawks definitely know where to eat! Later that evening, we met up with some
other Navajos, for a “swift half” in another lovely little pub … there seems to be a theme occurring here!
Next morning we were up bright and breezy and heading over to the Seminole Rover hut, where they had
very kindly arranged breakfast for us all. It was great to see the Rover Hut looking so good. The lads had
obviously put a lot of effort into making it fit for purpose (Andrew is still very proud of his floor!) Over
numerous cups of tea, bacon and black pudding sarnies and chocolate biscuits, we had a good chat, joined
by the Navajos and an Inca.
The weekend was great for me. All of the crews’ members were so welcoming and willing to give up their
weekend in order to host us coming up. It is obvious that each crew has its merits, and a fantastic community
spirit. A big “THANK YOU” has to go to Nat, Louise, Andrew and Ada for a brilliant weekend. I had a
blast, and hope to do it all again in the not too distant future!
Hopefully I can get a date to visit Impeesa Pynot very soon!
International Rover moot: This will take place at Ashworth Valley campsite, on 20
th./22
nd. June. At the time of writing, some 18
visitors from various countries are looking to attend. Let’s get some good numbers from the U.K!
Check it out on the webpage: www.Fse-Scouts.EU/intlrovermoot.html AJ.
RSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSLRSL
22
2nd
. & 5th
. Lancs. and St. Andrew’s Otters – presentation evening
Each year we hold a presentation evening, to celebrate, and show our members’ parents, what we have done
over the past 12 months. This year we had a fantastic turn-out from the parents, and plenty for them to see
and do.
The night started with flag break followed by presentations from each section, explaining what we do during
weekly meetings, and at various F.S.E. events throughout the year.
This year we had leaders from the Headquarters team attend, to help present awards to the children, so thank
you to Tadge Clayton (HQ Commissioner – Scouts), Christine (Teapot) Dakin (Assistant HQ Commissioner
– Wolf Cubs) & Linda Osgood (WPP
Commissioner).
5th
. Lancs. GSM, Graham Gordon, took to the
floor to make a special presentation to retiring
SM, Bob. Downing, who has become ASM to
in-coming SM, Chris. Woods.
Each section awarded various certificates and
trophies throughout the evening, ranging from
badge work to Cub and Scout of the year.
Thank you to our PFA (Pat, Lisa, Peter and
Emma) for all your hard work in organising an
amazing night.
Chris. Woods (SM & Assistant PC)
The end of one era … the start of another?
After surviving the Ice Age and witnessing the
invention of the wheel, the moment Bob. Downing, SM
of the 5th. Lancs, thought would never come has finally
done so! He has, at last, been able to hand over the reins
of the Troop to someone else, and has placed them in
the capable hands of Chris. Woods.
Chris. says “Bob has done so much over the past 50
years for our Scout Group. He has now taken up the
position of ASM, and will continue to be a massive part
of the Group. We decided to treat him to a huge
THANK YOU cake, made by a member of our PFA,
Lisa Shepherd.
Thank you Bob!
You are an amazing Leader.
From all the members and leaders of the 5
th. Lancs
Scout Master’s
Award
Nial Ryan
Scout of the year
Carl Shepard
23
Seminoles St. George’s Day meal – (revival of a tradition)
On Friday, April 18
th, at 7.00pm, thirteen Seminole Rovers, past and present, together with our good friend
Kevin Smith, gathered at the Three Arrows pub in Blackley, for a meal to celebrate St. George’s Day. This
long established Crew tradition has been sadly neglected for the last few years, and the current members
decided it was high time it was revived.
The highlight of any Seminole St. George’s
Day meal is always the presentation of “The
Can”…. the trophy nobody wants to receive!
This extremely old, dented and slightly rusty
object is an (empty!) Watney’s beer Party
Seven can, and is awarded annually for the
most dangerous, idiotic, crass or deeply
embarrassing act carried out by a member of
the Crew over a twelve months period!
Nominations are handed in anonymously
throughout the year and go before the judges
(Andrew Berry’s father “Fred” and his uncle
Phil.) before the meal is started, and “The
Can” is presented to the winner (?) at the end
of it. Keeping it in the family, this year’s
winner was Andrew Berry who, ignoring
repeated warnings of the danger whilst sawing
a panel out of the kitchen wall to make a
serving hatch, managed to saw through a
whole bunch of live electric cables! Of course,
Andrew being Andrew, he actually thought the
award was an honour!
Although many Crew members were unable to
attend this year it was, never the less, great for
the younger Rovers to meet and chat to the
“old timers”, and to be regaled with anecdotes
from the Crew’s colourful history. Hopefully, now the event has been resurrected, future St. George’s Day
meals will be even better attended.
Chris. Woods (with a little help from a friend!)
A Simple Whipping … used to prevent the end of a rope from fraying.
David (a.k.a. Fred) Berry, performing the some-
what embarrassing task of presenting “The Can”
to his son, Andrew.
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St. George’s Day parade – Almondsbury, Glos.
This year it was the lot of Central Province to stage the annual St. George’s Day parade. Our newest Group,
1st/2
nd Gloucestershire (Ynot), offered to host the event. Despite the long distances most other Groups would
have to travel, the offer was taken up, especially as the Almondsbury Group felt if could raise their profile in
the village, and show the local community that they were not a one man band. In typical FSE style, everyone
got behind the idea, and virtually all our Groups were represented on the parade.
To offset the long journey, the Ynots offered to help provide indoor and camping facilities for any who
would prefer to have a more leisurely trip on the Saturday, rather than a more gruelling round trip on the
Sunday, and most took this up. For months prior to the parade, the Ynot leaders put in an incredible amount
of work planning the route, arranging the facilities and sending out a detailed information pack, as well as
laying on a couple of hot meals and producing a programme of events for the “weekenders”.
On Saturday afternoon, the Scouts had a short hike round the local area, whilst the Cubs took part in a
“treasure” trail. This involved them seeking out numbered cards which eventually found letters spelling out
“George and the dragon”. Following a late evening meal, rain unfortunately lead to the camp fire being
cancelled, so everyone moved to the Ynots meeting hall where games such as dodge ball, minefields,
something with inner tubes (?!?) and, inevitably, football, were played.
Next morning, following breakfast provided by the hosts, everyone walked the short distance from the
campsite to the assembly field, where they were joined by the local bugle and drum band which was to lead
the parade. All though overcast, the rain held off, as the parade wound its way along, up and down, through
Almondsley village (the “ups” and “downs” claiming a few victims who, with an eye on future blackmailing
opportunities, shall for the time being remain nameless!) eventually arriving at the church.
On a more serious note, Jad, in his role as National Commissioner, presented long service awards to Linda
Osgood (15 years) and Kevin smith (50 years, with no time off for good behaviour!)
Following the service, the
parade retraced the route back
to the starting field, where the
“ups” and “downs” were,
once again, felt more by some
than by others! Thanks were
given to the band, the traffic
marshals and the parents,
friends and members of the
hosts, 1st/2
nd Gloucestershire
Group, for all their hard work
in making the parade such a success. The award for smartest Group on parade was announced,(Bravo to
1st/2
nd Derbyshire), the parade dismissed, and tea, coffee, some other kind of liquid and chips were hastily
consumed, before everyone said their goodbyes and set off on the long haul back home.
Kevin.
… and the new!
The old …
Partway through the service, all the
children were given pens and sticky labels
on which to write a comment about their
leader. The leaders then had to line up in
the aisle while the children plastered them
with labels! To add further to their
embarrassment, they then had to read out
loud what had been written about them!
25
St. George’s Day parade (continued)
26
National Commissioner’s Report – 30th
April 2014
FSE Dinner Dance
Well, what an amazing night!! It is difficult to put into words what a fantastic event this was and how
much effort the Inca Ranger Crew put in to organising the evening. I think it is a case of you had to be
there and for those that were you know how good it was. Congratulations to the Inca Ranger Crew on
their 40th
Anniversary and for arranging this wonderful evening.
Training:
Patrol Leader Training
This started in January with the First Aid Course being delivered to 12 PLs/APLs. They all
successfully completed the course, thus passing the Ambulance Badge as well as gaining a
professional certificate in First Aid. The next session was run in March at Woolley Edge Campsite.
This was attended by 15 PLs/APLs and focussed on all things map reading and hiking. There are two
more stages this year the next being on 30th
May to 1st June 2014 (Camping Standards). Details will be
out soon. PLs/APLs – Don’t miss out.
The HQ Commissioner for Scouts (Tadge Clayton) deserves a rather large pat on the back for the
effort he has put in in arranging these weekends.
Sixer/Seconder training
This is booked into the diary for weekend of 31st Oct to 2
nd Nov 2014. More details to follow from HQ
Commissioner for Cubs Suzzy Taylor.
Online training for safeguarding children will be available to all Leaders/Adult Members within a
week or two. It is currently on its final review. This will be followed by the online Leaders Information
Course within the next month.
A Scout PTC will hopefully be run in the near future in the Gloucestershire area, more information on
this will be available soon from HQ Commissioner for Leader Training (Tony Ward).
A GSM PTC will be run later in the year. The GSM is the backbone of the Scout Group. The role is
not one of a Section Leader the GSM is a separate job entirely and is absolutely essential to the
running of a Scout Group.
This course is aimed at the running of a Scout Group in its day-to-day dealings. The course is designed
to set the standard expected for all to follow, without removing our traditions. We will be contacting
all GSMs later in the year with an invitation to attend.
Annual Review of Documentation Suite
We are in the process of completing the annual review of the FSE Documentation Suite. This is a
process whereby each document is looked at to see whether any updates are required. Most existing
documents have had minor changes made to them but the biggest change is that the Policies,
Procedures and Practises (PPP) document is to be ‘retired’. It was written well over 10 years ago and
has served us well but it is now tired and considerable sections are out of date. (cont.)
27
National Commissioner’s Report (cont.)
The PPP will be replaced with several smaller documents such as: Confidentiality Data Protection,
Equality and Diversity, Leader Training, and Health & Safety Manual.
St George’s Day Parade Camp
What an absolutely fantastic weekend. The campsite was really nice with very welcoming staff and
great facilities, the programme for the kids was jam packed and the food was fantastic (Lisa and Lynne
– You are superstars!). Just a shame the heavens opened as the camp fire was about to start.
It was really great to parade through Almondsbury village although parading along a major duel
carriageway (A38) I think was a first for the FSE….
During the St George’s Day Service I had the pleasure of presenting Long Service Awards to Linda
Osgood for 15 years’ service and to Kevin Smith for 50 years’ service. Well done to both.
Congratulations to the 1st and 2
nd Derbyshire Scout Group on winning the St George’s Day Trophy, it
was a very close call with the 2nd
Lancashire but you pipped them to the post. A deserved win, you
looked incredibly smart.
A very big thank-you to all the leaders of the YKnot Scout Group for putting on a very special
weekend, certainly one I won’t forget in a hurry.
Other stuff:
CES President Wouter Aarts and Vice President Verena Borger visited England in February.
Thanks to everyone who was involved in making their stay here as welcoming as possible. There was
no specific agenda as such it was more an informal visit to spend time with friends. Both Wouter and
Verena were extremely grateful for everyone’s hospitality.
The CES Meeting
This will be held in Weeze at the Niederrhein in Germany over the weekend of 24th
to 26th
October
2014. The National Leadership will be sending its required delegation but it should be remembered that
anyone can attend this meeting. I am quite sure our Young Leaders Representative (Rick Earley) will
soon be asking which young leaders wish to attend the Indaba (CES Young Leader Training). This is
great opportunity for young leaders to meet with other young leaders from within the CES and share
ideas. Please note; the CES Bureau will assist with the cost of the weekend (accommodation/food) and
the FSE (BA) National Leadership will assist with the cost of travel.
That’s about everything for now, I hope to see you all at the Yorkshire Rally Camp,
Yours in Scouting and Friendship,
Jad
National Commissioner FSE (BA)
28
