FOUR Scouts from Witham enjoyed an incredible trip across the pond as they spent three-weeks in the USA and Canada.
Nicholas and Edward Grainger alongside John Deathe and William Green were part of the Essex 2023 International Adventures North American contingent.
The quartet, who have been in the Scouts for many years, went through a selection process at the end of 2021 to join 120 scouts and leaders on the adventure.
Nicholas and Edward's mum Anita Grainer, said: “Their grandfather was very into Scouting, and I used to be a part of it too a long time ago.
“They started in Beavers, and now Edward is a Scout in Silver End, and Nicholas is an Explorer in Witham.
“The selection process for the trip was firstly filling out a form on why they wanted to go, and then they were assessed over a camping weekend.
“The boys put the North America trip first of all the options.”
As part of the preparation, they attended several training events and undertook fundraising organising events such as an American-themed family barbeque, quiz night and bottle bank collection service.
The Scouts were split into groups and enjoyed a range of activities throughout their journey.
They started their adventure in New York visiting the sights including the 9/11 Memorial before heading upstate to undertake a five-day canoe trek in the Adirondacks.
This was followed by camping with American Scouts and completing badgework before heading over to Canada to visit Toronto, Niagara Falls and Canada Wonderland.
Anita said: “These trips are great for life skills.
“They spent three weeks in America in a large group and it really helps to learn to stand on their own feet.
“They do their own washing, prepare meals, put tents up and just learn to get on with people.
“It is the furthest they have gone for a while, as they were due to do some trips during Covid but couldn’t go abroad.
“It’s good to see they had such a good time.”
For more information, visit essexscouts.org.uk.
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