Scout expedition, Norway - 2008

John Francis, a Scout from Maidstone in Kent, plans to join an expedition to a remote area of Norway in the summer of 2008.

The expedition is to help John achieve his Scout Explorer Belt. The Explorer Belt is the challenge of a lifetime, which is open to Explorer Scouts aged over 16 and members of the Scout Network. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day expedition that brings a real understanding of a different country, its people and way of life. John has received £250 in February 2008 from the JWCT to cover his flight and in-country travel costs.

John Francis and three fellow Scouts gave an entertaining and informative presentation on their expedition to Norway on 1 June. During the course of their trip, they had to undertake 11 challenges presented to them on the eve of their departure and they showed great ingenuity in achieving them. They were each awarded their Explorer Belts at the end of the presentation which was attended by Nick and Tricia, Jeremy’s parents. John said “The expedition has inspired me to try and complete my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, apply for an expedition to Ecuador next summer and look into completing my Mountain Leader award.”