There have been three walking expeditions over the summer: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

The Bronze, started 20 August, is reported here, and is particularly pleasing as the Explorers involved had to overcome additional challenges.

The Silvers who completed their Qualifying expedition were out at the height of the heatwave and did extremely well given the conditions in the Lowther Hills.  The leaders did a great job getting them through, with the task of providing extra water added to their normal responsibilities.

The Golds were out over the same weekend, but walking a circular route from Bridge of Orchy, looping down Glen Lyon on a route containing three challenging, pathless sections.  They coped very well, supporting each other throughout, and were rewarded by some spectacular views in country where meeting a person was a rare event; meanwhile, down below in Tyndrum, the visitors faced nose-to-tail traffic and queues everywhere.

The paddling groups had a very successful summer, with 40 candidates completing their Practice on Loch Venachar, based at the Invertrossachs Scout Centre.

The Autumn brings another Silver and Gold Qualifying expedition for the walkers in the same areas, and also for the paddlers, who will be on Loch Tay and Loch Awe, respectively.  There will also be a final Bronze walking expedition in the Pentlands, for those just starting their journey.

Congratulations to all the young people, and grateful thanks to the many adults without whom this could not happen.

John Buchanan for SEEE (South East Explorer Expeditions)