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Wharfedale scouts battle it out in annual torch race

Monday, 12 May 2025 12:36

The Wharfedale District Scout & Explorer Scout 'Sam Ives Torch Race' took place last week

The Wharfedale District Scout & Explorer Scout 'Sam Ives Torch Race' took place again last Friday, 9th May.

The original Torch was first held in 1935 as part of the celebrations of the Silver Jubilee of King George V and Queen Mary & was part of the original Beacon lit on the top of the Chevin for the Jubilee.

Local Scouts have arranged to hold a relay from the town centre to a flagpole placed on the site of the original beacon ever since.

Three Teams of Explorer Scouts (aged 14 to 18) from Ilkley, Otley Bridge & 2nd Otley, plus five Scout teams from 1st Ben Rhydding, Otley Bridge, Otley Methodist, Otley Parish, and Menston assembled at the bottom of Station Road at 7.30pm.

David Shaw MBE scout leader explains the touch race:

"The race ran directly up to the top of the steps right up the Chevin slops directly up to the flagstaff erected on Surprise View, no private land must be crossed.

"The winner is the first runner to touch the flagstaff. She or he will then break the flag.

"The flagstaff will be provided by the previous year's winner. Dress for the race will be running gear and Necker. Scouts are not allowed to run in jeans and spiked shoes are not allowed.

"Wharfedale Lion Hearts SAS Service team organise the Race & The District are for ever grateful to these long serving members."

The presentation of the trophy took place at the finish around 8pm after all the judges have satisfied the organisers that the rules were adhered to.

The Winners of The Scouts Competition were Otley Parish and Otley Bridge Explorers won the Explorer trophy, which were presented by the Assistance District Commissioner for Scouts, Naomi McMorn.

Otley Bridge Scouts were the smartest Troop judged before the race, the smartest Explorer unit were the Otley Bridge Explorers.

David added:

"The Key organisers are The Lionhearts Scout Service team run by Iain Paterson from Otley Bridge assisted by Christine Paterson & we thank them for organising this important annual race for many years.

"For more information on Scouting in Wharfedale and any adults offering to volunteer, please contact PR@@wharfedalescouts.org.uk or message us on our Facebook page."

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