MORE than a hundred youngsters from across south Cumbria came together for a weekend of adventure to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the Cub Scouts.

Children from Askam, Barrow, Broughton, Dalton, Ulverston and Walney joined more than 40 leaders to take part in a range of adrenaline-fuelled activities including abseiling, kayaking and rock climbing.

The group, known as Cubs, is targeted at seven to 10-year-old boys and girls and comes in between Beavers and Scouts.

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Matt Sanderson, 44, from Roose, works as a group Scout leader for the 17th Barrow Scout Group and was involved in last weekend's celebrations.

He said: "This was really about bringing together as many cubs as possible, sharing adventures and forming new friendships.

"This was a very special opportunity; we regularly try and get all of the groups together for adventures or just social occasions but it was important that we celebrated the 100th anniversary.

"We had a great weekend and I don't think anybody went home without a smile on their face, even if they were probably quite tired."

The weekend started with an opening ceremony at the Scouts' district campsite at Urswick on Friday evening followed by a night hike around Urswick hillfort.

On Saturday morning, the group travelled to Kepplewray outdoor activity centre in Broughton to participate in a number of team challenges which tested the athleticism and drive of the Cubs.

Callum Charnley, of Walney Cub Pack, said: "The best thing was the mine exploring. I’ve never been in a real cave before. It was cool, spooky and dark."

Oliver Watson, of 2nd Ulverston Cub Pack, also enjoyed his time at the centre and described fencing as "epic".

After a tiring afternoon, the group returned to Urswick where they sang songs around the campfire before enjoying a closing ceremony where they cut a special centenary cake to mark the occasion.

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Scout group is truly at the heart of its community

Mr Sanderson believes that more children are being inspired to join the Cubs and thinks that they will benefit immensely from joining the Scout Association.

He added: "Scouting is definitely on the increase in this district and across the country. Last year in Barrow we were able to set up a new group and we are always actively encouraging people to come and get involved in what we do.

"We do our very best to make everyone feel welcome and the group is all about encouraging people to challenge themselves and do their best; that's all we can ask for."