MORE than 300 people travelled from as far afield as the Netherlands and Canada recently to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Hag Dyke Scout Hostel in Kettlewell.
A commemoration day was held at the mountain home of the 1st Ben Rhydding Scout Group with a service at the chapel, thought to be the highest one in England. The Revd Tom Lusty, vicar of Upper Wharfedale and Littondale took the service and Ashley France, Scout Leader of Menston played the organ for the hymns.
There were souvenir booklets and displays of photos charting the 75 year history of the site, as well as a special badge designed to mark the anniversary which was on sale on the day.
Organisers appealed for details of peoples most enjoyable, first experiences of Hag Dyke and any other memories they had and some of these were read out at the service. Pictures were on show dating back to the 1940s in a display put together by Colin Williams Chair of 1st Ben Rhydding Scout & Guide Group.
Explorer and Chief Scout Bear Grylls sent a personal message which was read out at the event, and which said: “The Scouts stand for so much that I value in life – friendships, family, faith and adventure. I am learning every day that the young people around the world don’t lack ambition, they just lack opportunities, and the Scouts are a shining light that brings camaraderie, adventure and a sense of belonging to those who might never normally get the chance to experience any of these magical things.
“It is about everyday people, serving as leaders in their communities, giving Scouts a confidence, sense of purpose, life values and outdoor skills that are hard to find anywhere else. Hag Dyke is a shining example of all this and demonstrates so well the very best Scouting has to offer and long may it remain.”
Ronald Ibbetson was the instigator, inspiration and facilitator behind the Hag Dyke project. He joined the 1st Ben Rhydding Scout Group as Scout Master in 1933 some two years after its formation. While he may be best remembered for Hag Dyke the link he created in 1948 with a Dutch Group from The Hague comes a close second. Each Group calls themselves “de Mohicanen” and wear the same neckerchief. The link with the Dutch Group continues to the present day and next year celebrates its 75 years, and members were on hand to celebrate the Hag Dyke anniversary.
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