Mansfield Building Society’s Community Support scheme has donated £500 to 1st Clipstone Scout Group to fund kayak equipment, including lifejackets, safety helmets and emergency throw-lines, to help the group get back on the water.

The group, which has more than 65 youth members as well as voluntary adult support staff, has a long history of kayaking activities — and kayak skills have become an integral part of its events.

With two group leaders trained in kayak instruction, the group’s main aim is to re-establish participation in the sport for young people. The new equipment will help in a programme that includes safety and capsize training at swimming baths.

The programme also includes Scouts going on trips, taking part in competitions, and gaining awards and badges, as well as giving leaders the opportunity to train as kayak instructors.

James Gibson, group leader, said: “We have managed to continue our fundraising to cover the everyday operational costs of the group (but) we are unable to raise extra funds to make larger purchases such as the renewing of our kayak equipment.

“That’s why we are incredibly grateful to the Mansfield for donating these funds to help us get back on the water.”

The Mansfield’s commercial development executive, Richard Crisp, is pictured with members of 1st Clipstone Scouts.