I write to express the overwhelming sense of pride I felt alongside many other parents, friends and passers-by when the 30 plus young scouts, explorers, leaders and helpers from 2nd St Ives Sea Scouts paddled the final stretch of a long distance canoe paddle from Bedford, St Neots and Huntingdon.

FIRSTLY I write to express the overwhelming sense of pride I felt alongside many other parents, friends and passers-by when the 30 plus young scouts, explorers, leaders and helpers from 2nd St Ives Sea Scouts paddled the final stretch of a long distance canoe paddle from Bedford, St Neots and Huntingdon.

The aim was to raise money towards a new scout hut by collectively paddling 900km in honour of the St Ives 900 year celebrations. I can honestly say that this was one of the most moving moments I have experienced in 20-odd years of parenting, it was an absolute joy to cheer them home.

I feel privileged to know these youngsters and think they deserve a mention for the sheer determination they showed in completing this venture. A huge achievement when you consider that many of them paddled further than a marathon! Secondly I’d like to thank the people of St Neots and st Ives who generously gave to our collections and supported our cake stalls and tombola, the officials at the council for their permission and of course the leaders and volunteers involved in organising this event. Well done all.

LINDA MOORE

Ramsey Road

Ramsey Forty Foot