Scouting

The exercise concluded at Sutton-on-Forest, where Dench and his saboteurs were surrounded and wiped out. "Mufti" Dench himself first penetrated the lines of the Security Force, destroyed their H.Q., killing C.S.M. Chadwick, and then committed suicide by taking poison, dying a hero's death! Thus the day was a great success, enjoyed by all.

Owing to the appalling weather conditions, the Cert. "A" programme and the General Inspection have been postponed till next term.

Promotions.

Sgt. Hutchinson to be Manor Platoon Sergeant.

Cpl. Radford to be Recruits "B" Platoon Sergeant.

Outdoor activities during the past term have been considerably restricted by the severe weather. Nor has indoor scouting been at its best, for it has been virtually impossible to estimate at all accurately the number of Scouts likely to be absent at any one meeting through illness. This has made programme planning rather complicated as a result, involving last minute alterations all too often. The Junior Patrols have put in a good deal of valuable effort on second class tests, of which the full benefit has yet to be felt. It was unfortunate that their term was curtailed, though scouting for the dayboys continued till the end.

The Senior Patrols were pleased to welcome Mr. H. Jeffs to many of their meetings, and are grateful to him for his help and interest.

The usual Easter Term Field Day was held early in March. The climatic conditions did not prevent us from cooking and consuming the best cooked dinner since this event became a regular feature of this particular Field Day. The other traditional item on this occasion—the Treasure Hunt—was held and won, more by good luck than by good judgment, by the Seals. All patrols completed the course and the finish was very close. The afternoon was spent in a most instructive and interesting visit to York City Fire Station. Here we were shown in detail the working of the various firefighting appliances from the largest motor pump to a domestic fire extinguisher. The latter we were able to use in practice. We also enjoyed sliding down the polished metal pole from the firemen's quarters on the first floor. Our visit concluded with a glimpse of the "nerve centre" of the Fire Station, where the location of all appliances and firemen on duty are recorded' visually. We are grateful to the authorities for such an enjoyable afternoon.

When the floods receded after the thaw, a number of the Dayboy Scouts spent some busy hours in the early part of the holidays helping flood victims to salvage their belongings and to clean up and dry out their homes. Their efforts were much appreciated by those who received their help. 36