A GROUP of 29 Blackdown Hills scouts and explorers have returned from the ‘trip of a lifetime’ to Denmark, where they celebrated more than half a century of friendship.

The 1st Hemyock Scouts have been exchanging visits with the Danish Tønder Scout Group for more than 50 years.

It was the 22nd exchange between them since a partnership began in 1972 when Hemyock scouts stepped in to host Danish scouts from Tønder at the Devon Scout Jamboree.

The 2025 trip began with a visit to Copenhagen before travelling to Daugård to camp with Danish friends at the Æbleskoven Scout Centre.

Activities included raft building, beach swimming, fishing, starlit camping, and traditional campfires.

The group then headed south to Tønder, camping and staying with host families.

With Tønder close to the German border, the scouts managed to stand with one foot in Denmark and the other in Germany during a hike.

The adventure was made possible thanks to support from the community helping raise more than £12,000 through events such as ‘Takeout Thursday’, a table-top sale, and raffles.

Local businesses also played a key role, with sponsorship from Aspirations Support, Creature Comforts, Monument Fuels Ltd, Activinsights, Tilhill Forestry, Mount Vets Farm Practice, and West Country Fencing Supplies.

Scout leader Joss Langford said: “This trip was particularly significant as these young people were among those most affected by the Covid pandemic, which disrupted so many opportunities for residential and social development.

“For many, this was their longest time away from home, helping them build vital life skills such as independence, resilience, and teamwork.

“They have already forged strong friendships through scouting, and this exchange has deepened those bonds even further.”

Tønder Scouts are now planning their return visit to England in 2027, fund-raising for which begins in the autumn with ‘Takeout Thursday’ events returning.