1st Forres Scouts complete sponsored cycle on Dava Way to raise funds for Ukraine
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A GROUP of young adventurers completed a 20-mile cycle into the wild to raise funds for Ukraine.
Twelve 1st Forres Scouts - accompanied by five adults - aimed to reach Halfway Hut on the Dava Way from Forres to Grantown-on-Spey but were forced back by difficult conditions.
Scout Group secretary, Louise Berry, confirmed the sponsored tour is something the youngsters have enjoyed before and allows them to raise support where it is needed.
She said: “We didn’t get quite as far as we intended as it was muddier than expected which slowed us down!
“We stopped at the Breathing Space at Edinkillie for hot chocolate and lunch then cycled back to the Scout Hut via the Hill of Glaschyle Wind Farm where two of our new Scouts, Boyd and Craig, made their promise and were invested into the troop.”
The scouts were lucky with the weather until they got to the top of the wind farm where it poured with rain.
Phoebe Dennis (13), was unable to make the fundraiser so she completed the challenge with her mum on Sunday.
“It was fun and difficult,” said Phoebe. “I’m proud of what we have achieved.”
Fellow Scout Halszka Le-Riche (11) enjoyed the main event, despite it being difficult.
She said: “Some bits were hard when we were going uphill in the rain but the ride was for a good cause. We are helping people in Ukraine who will be very grateful.”
1st Forres Scouts sponsored cycle has so far raised £1300 for two Shelterboxes to send to Ukraine.
Boyd Miller (10) is glad he beat the temptation to give up his off-road burn.
He said: “The Shelterboxes will give families shelter and a place to prepare food. It felt good to do something to help.”
His friend Adam Rhind (13) was also proud to do something practical for the people of Ukraine.
He said: “The Shelterbox kits look great. I’m glad we’ve raised enough money.”
Louise finished: “We’re very grateful to everyone who has donated so far and extremely proud of our Scouts.”
To contribute, contact forresscouts.sec@gmail.com for more details.
