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.

Braintree and Witham Times: LOOKING UP: Scouts at the CN Tower in TorontoLOOKING UP: Scouts at the CN Tower in Toronto (Image: Public)

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.

Braintree and Witham Times: WET DAY: The group at the Floodwood Mountain Scout Reservation in New YorkWET DAY: The group at the Floodwood Mountain Scout Reservation in New York (Image: Public)

“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.”

Braintree and Witham Times: ALL SMILES: Canoeing in the AdirondacksALL SMILES: Canoeing in the Adirondacks (Image: Public)

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.

Braintree and Witham Times: LIFE IS A ROLLERCOASTER: The Scouts pictured at Canada's Wonderland theme parkLIFE IS A ROLLERCOASTER: The Scouts pictured at Canada's Wonderland theme park (Image: Public)

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.

Braintree and Witham Times: GATHER ROUND: The Scouts enjoyed several days in CanadaGATHER ROUND: The Scouts enjoyed several days in Canada (Image: Public)

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.

Braintree and Witham Times: ALL TOGETHER: About 120 Scouts and leaders embarked on the adventureALL TOGETHER: About 120 Scouts and leaders embarked on the adventure (Image: Public)

“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.