A 13-year-old scout from Catterick Village has braved sub-zero temperatures in a survival campout to raise funds for a once-in-a-lifetime European adventure.
Connor Roulston, a member of Brompton & Catterick St Anne’s Scout Group, spent two nights camping outdoors between 13 and 15 February armed with nothing more than a poncho for shelter, as temperatures dropped to -3°C.
The challenge marked the first of three major sponsored events Connor is undertaking this year to help raise £3,600 for a European Scout trip in summer 2027.
He has been selected as one of just 30 young people from more than 100 applicants to represent North Yorkshire on the county’s first European Scout trip.
During the two-night, three-day survival experience, Connor camped without technology and cooked all his meals over an open fire. Despite the freezing conditions on the first night — and waking to a blanket of snow on the second morning — he persevered.
“The survival camp was really cold, especially the first night, and I didn’t get much sleep,” Connor said.
“But I’m proud that I pushed myself to do it. Sitting by the fire and watching the stars made it worth it. I’m determined to keep going with my fundraising so I can take part in the European trip.”
Connor has been involved in Scouting since the age of five, starting as a Beaver Scout, and says it has helped build his confidence and skills. The 2027 trip will offer opportunities to develop independence, leadership, teamwork and cultural understanding.
To fund the cost of the trip, he has already organised community events, sold handmade crafts and taken part in Christmas tree collections alongside his family. The survival campout is just the beginning of a busy year of fundraising.
In May, Connor will take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, followed by the Junior Great North Run in fancy dress in September.
Supporters can donate via his JustGiving page or follow his progress on social media as he works towards his target.
To sponsor Connot, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/connorseuropeanscoutfundraiser
You can follow Connor’s fundraising journey at www.facebook.com/connorseuropeanscoutfundraiser
