Kilsyth Scouts visit the Orkneys

Scout leader Mike Duffy tells us about their experiences in his own words:

“A group of the 1st Kilsyth Scouts returning from the Island of Rousay having completed a 16K hike to explore the Historic Scotland sites of Mid Howe BiRousayrch and Chambered Cairn. Hike route planning and timing takes on a while new importance when you have got to make it back for the last ferry!

“The scouts did not have much time to recreate the Skara Brae dwellings or the Ring of Brodgar henge they explored, but they did have a good try and their engineering efforts can be seen on the beach at Skaill bay if you are quick!

Historic Scotland staff did a great job, especially the ranger at the Ring of Brodgar who had to start her education by dispelling the scouts’ insistence that a stargate or time portal must be buried close by!

The hospitality of the Orkney people is legendary and the 2nd Kirkwall Group went further in supporting our desire to take the troop to the island in August this year. Using their hall in Kirkwall as a base we managed to visit a number of world heritage sites on the main island and visited the islands or Hoy and Roussay as well. The Pickaquoy leisure centre, walking distance from the centrally located hall and the pool and cinema complex were included in our plans to keep the scouts entertained and clean! We had a fantastic time and would recommend adding visiting Orkney to your must do list.

“The 25 members and six leaders were lucky enough to spend a week exploring the Orkney Island and appreciate the support of BAM Nuttall Plant, KBVO.co.uk, Pentland Ferries and the 2nd Kirkwall Scout Group.”