YOUNG EXPLORERS READY FOR CHALLENGE

A new generation of explorers will be able to take on the challenge of hiking on the North Yorkshire Moors safely thanks to a grant from Broadacres.

One of the many activities offered to RAF Air Cadets based at Darlington is the opportunity to complete their Duke of Edinburgh Award which includes hiking and camping expeditions.

Known as 405 (Darlington) Squadron, the cadets also offer boys and girls aged from 12-20 the chance to experience other activities including shooting, flying, flight simulator and developing radio and cyber skills.

The squadron has seen a rapid growth in numbers since the pandemic and have a new intake of 23 youngsters eager to start in September.

This resulted in an application for £495 being made to Broadacres’ Community Development Fund to buy new camping equipment and this was approved by the Association’s own residents.

“We have a very enthusiastic set of leaders which has opened up lots of activities, but it would be fair to say the camping equipment had seen better days” said Squadron Secretary Karina Dare.

“This grant is fantastic news as it has allowed us to replace camping equipment and ensure young people can continue to enjoy these great experiences.”

As well as tents and camping mats, the grant has also allowed some Trangia stoves to be bought and these have led to new challenges.

“We help young people to become self-sufficient which includes cooking for themselves,” said Karina. “As part of our preparation we held a challenge to see who could use a Trangia to cook the best three course meal on a budget.”

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents via a voting scheme using tokens similar to how Tesco award grants in its stores.

To apply to the Fund please click here.