Safety First: Vikings Help York Sea Scouts Stay Safe on the Water

We are proud to have funded new safety helmets and buoyancy devices for the 1st Clifton (York) Sea Scout Group kit that will help keep around 90 young people safe as they take to the River Ouse this year.

A 90-Year Tradition on the Ouse

The 1st Clifton (York) Sea Scouts have been part of life in Clifton and Rawcliffe for more than 90 years. They are the only sea scout group in North Yorkshire, and one of just 100 groups across the UK to be recognised by the Royal Navy.

Alongside traditional scouting activities, members get out on the water sailing, canoeing and kayaking on the Ouse using the group’s own fleet of kayaks, sailing dinghies, Canadian canoes, pulling boats and a powered safety boat.

Why the Equipment Matters

For sailing instructor and volunteer Matthew Sharman, one of 30 adults who give their time to run the group, safety is the first priority.

“We aim to have fun and for the scouts to learn valuable life skills but, of course, to us safety is paramount and we are grateful to the Vikings Rotary for their generous support. We depend on the kindness of organisations like Rotary to keep the club afloat in times of rising costs.”

The group is also looking ahead. With ambitious plans to replace its 1950s headquarters in time for its centenary in 2030, every pound of community support counts.

Service Above Self

For our club president, Mick Fox, supporting the sea scouts is exactly what Rotary is for.

“The sea scouts do such valuable work helping youngsters in the community to thrive and achieve their potential. We are delighted to be able to help. It is just one of a range of support we give to youth and community groups in the region, as well as the support we provide for the homeless, the elderly, and people in need.”

Get Involved

The 1st Clifton (York) Sea Scouts welcome new members of all faiths and backgrounds, and are always looking for additional adult volunteers.

Section times:

• Beavers (age 6 – 8): Tuesdays, 6.00 – 7.15pm
• Cubs (age 8 – 10.5): Wednesdays, 6.30 – 8.00pm
• Scouts (age 10.5 – 14): Fridays, 7.00 – 9.00pm
• Explorers (age 14 – 17): Thursdays, 7.30 – 9.30pm

To find out more, email join@yorkseascouts.org.uk.

To learn more about York Vikings Rotary Club and the causes we support including homeless charity SASH and HOPING Street Kitchen visit yorkvikingsrotary.org, or come and meet us at Pike Hills Golf Club any Tuesday at 7pm.