Vale of Clwyd Scouts outdoor cooking competition returns with a sizzling success

Vale of Clwyd Scouts proudly brought back its Outdoor Cooking Competition this weekend for the first time since 2019, with young people from across the district coming together for a brilliant day of teamwork, creativity and outdoor skills at Tynewydd Road, Rhyl.

The event welcomed nine Scout and Explorer teams from across the district, all taking on the challenge of planning, preparing and cooking meals outdoors on open fires. The standard was incredibly high, with teams serving up an impressive variety of dishes including homemade mozzarella sticks, nachos with homemade guacamole, breakfast baps, pasta dishes, fruit crumbles and campfire doughnuts.

Competition was strong throughout the day, and with scores incredibly close, judges had a difficult job separating the teams.

The competition was judged by District Youth Leads Isaac Jones and Joseph Steel, alongside Area Youth Lead Aimee Curtis, who were full of praise for the effort, skill and imagination shown by every team taking part.

Isaac and Joseph said: “We were really impressed by the standard of cooking on show. Every team put so much effort into their dishes, and it was clear to see the teamwork, creativity and skill that had gone into preparing them. Judging was not easy because the scores were so close, and everyone should be really proud of what they achieved.”

As part of the event, Vale of Clwyd Scouts also took the opportunity to recognise one of its longest serving volunteers. Des Hayes was presented with his 50 Years Service Award, as well as a Commissioners Commendation in recognition of his lifelong commitment to Scouting.

Speaking to the young people at the event, Des summed up his dedication perfectly when he asked: “Why do you think I still do it? Because I love it!”

Jacob Jones, District Lead Volunteer for Vale of Clwyd Scouts, said: “It was fantastic to see the Outdoor Cooking Competition return after so many years and to see so many young people getting involved with such enthusiasm. The standard was outstanding, not just in the quality of the food but in the teamwork, resilience and creativity on display throughout the day. Events like this show exactly what Scouting is all about, giving young people the chance to challenge themselves, learn new skills and have fun together outdoors.”

A young person from 2nd Rhyl said: “We had such a good time. It was a bit stressful at points because we wanted everything to go right, but it was really fun working together and seeing what everyone else was making too. We were really happy with how we did.”

A young person from Bobcats said: “It was a great competition and everyone worked really hard. We had to think carefully about timing and make sure everything was cooked properly, but that was part of the challenge. It felt amazing to place and we’re really proud of ourselves.”

A huge thank you goes to all the leaders, volunteers and supporters who helped make the event possible, and to all of the young people who took part and made the day such a success.

Kevin Field, Area Lead Volunteer for Clwyd, visited during the event and was really impressed with the turnout, teamwork and creative cooking on show.