PENARTH Explorer Scouts from both Storm and Les Pugh's Own units took to the waters of the River Wye for their final canoe trip of the season.

This was the culmination of months of training towards the nationally recognised British Canoe Union 1 star award. It allowed them to demonstrate their ability to control both open canoes and kayaks on moving water, using a variety of paddle stroke techniques.

Starting with a safety brief, ensuring correct equipment was used from buoyancy aids to footwear, the group took to the water.

Once warmed up at the launching point of Symonds Yat, they proceeded down river and on the route completed control tests like emergency stops, turns, swapping boats in mid river, all designed to ensure their competence.

The paddle downstream afforded them the opportunity to see the river wildlife from the best vantage point. As it was such a glorious day there were many crafts on the river, and all had to be respected, so their close control techniques were used to great effect - with no collisions!

They ended the trip at Monmouth after two and a half hours of steady paddling. They now look forward to this year's summer camp - nine days in the New Forest, tackling many more challenges and skills.