1st Forres Scouts, 18th Inverness (Muirtown) Sea Scout Group and 1st Avoch Sea Scouts invest in shared boat
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LOCAL scouts have enjoyed their first outing on a boat they have a stake in near Inverness.
Having invested in ‘Scout About’, a former cruiser on the Caledonian Canal, 1st Forres Scouts, 18th Inverness (Muirtown) Sea Scout Group and 1st Avoch Sea Scouts will now share opportunities to lift anchor.
1st Forres Scouts group leader, John Innes, explained the relationship between the three troops goes back over a quarter century.
He said: “We all go back 25 years plus but the water rally at Loch Ness every October has been going for 49 years! I first went as a scout in 1980, aged 14. I’ve since done 43 more!”
Eight youngsters, two Cub leaders and Paul Stitson joined John at Dochgaroch Loch in Inverness to try water sports including kayaking, sailing, bell boating, power boating and yacht sailing.
John said: “Muirtown, Avoch and Forres Scouts set up the venture between the groups for experience on the water.
“We all chip in to finance the running costs including insurance and fuel, maintenance and birthing fees on the canal.”
Attendees gain water skills and badges. They can also achieve qualifications through the Royal Yachting Association and paddle sports. The experience can help with joining the Royal Navy or merchant navy.
“Lots of older scouts followed this route,” said John, “including Michael Rhind from Forres who is now second mate on a cruise liner travelling the world!
“This all started from scout water sports in Findhorn Bay!”
