'˜A brilliant day' braving cold rain and snow

More than 400 Scouts and Guides from across the UK took part in the orienteering event in the Chiltern Hills.

Teams tackle one of three routes over a 50-mile, 50km or 30km distance, with 24 hours to complete their task.

Boys and girls aged 14 to 18 from MK’s Excalibur Explorer Unit took part in the 30km hike in the cold, rain and snow on Saturday, February 13. Just before setting off, they were given a series of eight-figure map references referring to checkpoints they must get to.

The event tests orienteering skills, physical ability and teamwork. Unlike other hikes, local knowledge does not help as the route is not disclosed until the day of the event.

Explorer Scout Charlotte Tucker, aged 14, said: “We have had a brilliant day hiking up in the Chiltern Hills. We love taking part in the Southern 50 because we have great fun and make new friends.”