Scouting is often associated with the outdoors- camping, campfire songs, hiking, navigation and marshmallows.

Indeed, Scout HQ says leaders are supposed to spend 50% or more of their scouting time with young people out and about.

However, as group scout leader Leanne Wrentmore explains, the Covid 19 lockdown has brought with it a challenging environment, most notably, what to do?

Leanne said:"What we have done is shown resilience and have thought outside the box! How can we carry on scouting? Virtually of course!

"For the last two weeks, Oakham All Saints Scout Group has been rolling out our scouting programme virtually by holding Zoom virtual meetings and by setting our scouts challenges and badge work to do at home.

"From scavenger hunts around the home, to Pictionary, quizzes, bingo, sun flower competitions, den building and virtual sleepovers, we will continue scouting and providing our young people with face-to-face contact. We have tried to keep the routine as normal as possible."

Around 120 children and young people have been taking part.

Leanne continued: "Even if all we do is say hello and play a little game,it provides our young people with a little bit of normality. They can't see their friends face to face but just holding a virtual scouting meeting has provided a much needed release of energy through fun and laughter.

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"We have also enlisted the help and support of the parents. The feedback we have received has been amazing and we will continue scouting virtually for as long as we are on lockdown.

"It has been so good for all our mental health and often parents have said to us that it is the first time they have seen their beaver, cub or scout smile and laugh that day."

Leanne concluded: "What it is shown is how resilient we all are and how willing we can adapt in times of change.

The scouts are keen to hear of new ideas to keep the fun going. People with ideas or who can help in other ways are asked to contact their Facebook page 'Oakham All Saints Scout Group' or direct through email to [email protected]