AN OAR-SOME challenge has been complete by two young scouts.
Inspired by the Rio Olympics, Bethany Ellis and Francis Fowler from the Second Warwick Sea Scouts took on the Three Lakes Challenge to raise money for the troop’s new hut.
The 11-year-olds were joined by friends to paddled the length of the longest lakes in England, Scotland and Wales. They are the youngest team to attempt the challenge and Bethany is the youngest girl to complete it in a solo craft.
The scouts spent nearly a week navigating over 40 miles around Bala Lake, Lake Windermere and Loch Awe and were supported by Jenna Saunders and Libby Robison from the Leam Boat Centre.
It was plain sailing in England and Wales for the team, but bad weather delayed the paddle on Loch Awe. Determined they would finish their challenge, the youngsters braved torrential rain to begin the last leg of their challenge.
After a soggy night camping the team were treated to sunshine for their final push around the Loch Awe.
Bethany said of the challenge: “The best part was camping on the island with a castle and a bonfire when the rain stopped!
“The hardest bit was staying paddling on day one on Loch Awe when the weather was so wet and windy and the waves were huge.”
Some £650,000 is needed to build the new foundations and shell of the sea scout’s new headquaters in St Nicholas Park. The current hut is too small and outdated but planning permission for the new base has been granted.
Nearly £100,000 has already been raised towards their new home – Bethany and Francis’ challenge has contributed over £800 so far.
Visit www.make-a-donation.org/fundraisers/three-lakes-kayakers to donate.
