SCOUTS from Lostock Gralam made history with their success in this year’s mini-hike.

Over the weekend of May 13 and 14 more than 30 teams from Mid-Cheshire and Knutsford took part in their district mini-hike at Tatton Park.

The mini-hike is the biggest competitive event in the Cub calendar, and was strongly contested by more than 60 Cub scouts from the Mid-Cheshire district.

Teams from 1st Lostock Gralam Scout Group took the first three places, and the winning team of Joseph Clarke, Tom Davenport and Ben Dunville retained the trophy they won last year.

“The Cubs had to plot maps around Tatton Park using six-figure grid references,” said Paul Clarke, Assistant Cub Scout Leader for 1st Lostock Gralam Scout Group.

“Once the maps were checked and scored they then had to navigate around the course without adult accompaniment.

“At certain points around the route they would reach a checkpoint where they were tested on various Scout skills such as knot tying, flag identification, first aid, tracking and map symbols.

“The Cubs were also given a task sheet with questions to answer along the way, and all of the answers could be found throughout the hike.

“During the weekend all competitors were observed and scored on teamwork, behaviour and helpfulness as well as the points picked up on the bases and the hike itself.

“Following a 'Scouts Own' ceremony on Sunday afternoon the results were announced by the Cubs assistant district commissioner, Gary Evans.

“Team 6 (1st Lostock Gralam) was placed third, Team 13 (1st Lostock Gralam) was placed second and Team 20 (1st Lostock Gralam) came placed first.

“In an historic year, Lostock took the top three places and Joseph Clarke, Tom Davenport and Ben Dunville retained the trophy they won in 2016.

“It wasn't all work and no play though. Everyone also got a chance to take part in water activities, cooking on campfires (backwoods cooking) and a selection of games throughout the weekend.

“Once again the event was a spectacular success and our gratitude goes to Gary Evans for his hard work and patience in the organisation.”