TRAINING is well under way for leaders of Teignbridge Scouts who are taking part in this year’s Ten Tors challenge.

Organised by the Army, the annual challenge takes place on Dartmoor in May and sees 2,400 teenagers, in teams of six, tackle hikes of either 35, 45 or 55 miles over the rough terrain.

More than 300 young people with special needs are also involved, taking part in the Jubilee Challenge.

It is the largest youth challenge of its kind in the country.

Teignbridge Scouts have been taking part in the challenge since 1974 when they began with a single team trained by two adult leaders.

Scout trainer Mark Edwards said: ‘Over the past 43 years it has grown to the point where last year we entered eight teams trained by more than 20 adult leaders, including two who have been involved for more than 40 years.

‘All eight teams successfully completed the expedition.

‘This year we have an entry of nine teams drawn from across the district comprising five for the 35 mile route, and two at both the 45 and 55 miles.’

Training begins indoors in November with team work, leadership, first aid, navigation and camp and field craft.

From January until the challenge in May, the Scouts and Explorers, aged from 13 to 19, develop their field skills, putting the theoretical learning into practice every other weekend on Dartmoor in all weathers.

Mark added: ‘The robust training model and quality of our volunteer leaders, who hold either Moutain Leader walking group or Mountain Leader Awards as well as Scout Association Permits underpins a uniformly high success rate.  

‘Leaders are all volunteers providing their own time and equipment.’