Canoeing for Gold!

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, cadets and staff from 2419 (Quedgeley) Squadron undertook their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition.

After completing expeditions on foot for previous levels, the group decided to take on a different challenge for Gold. Canoeing was a new activity for most of the group, so earlier in the year they had taken part in training and a practice expedition.

For the expedition the group travelled down the River Severn, from Montford Bridge to Stourport. Over the course of the four day expedition they travelled a total of 99km. They were completely self reliant for the duration, carrying all their food and kit for the journey.

As part of the expedition the group took time to visit places of historical interest along the river, including Ironbridge and the historical town of Bewdley.

The expedition is one of five sections required to gain the Gold Award. All members of the group will need to complete the volunteering, physical, skill and residential sections, before they can gain their awards.

Thanks go to 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Squadron for lending the group canoes and other equipment to complete the expedition. Also to Warrant Officer Viv Sherry, for training, supervising and helping with the organisation. Without this support the expedition wouldn’t have been possible.