Blaydon & District’s annual First Aid Competition once again took place today, continuing a proud tradition that dates all the way back to 1928.
Scouts from across the district descended upon the picturesque village of Muggleswick, County Durham, for a challenging yet rewarding day of outdoor adventure and essential skill-building. The competition, set along a circular walking route through the countryside, featured a series of realistic first aid scenarios where Scouts were tested on their knowledge, confidence, and quick thinking.
The checkpoints included everything from CPR demonstrations and managing bleeding, to treating sprains and strains, fractures, and dealing with shock. Each scenario was carefully designed to reflect real-life emergencies, giving the young participants the chance to apply their training in high-pressure, time-critical situations.
More than just a test of medical knowledge, the competition placed a strong emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and staying calm under pressure—core values of the Scouting movement. Patrols were judged not only on technical accuracy, but also on how they worked together to assess situations, delegate tasks, and support each other.
This year, 1st Chopwell took home the top honours, winning the event for the second year in a row—a testament to their dedication, preparation, and team spirit. Their impressive performance across the course set them apart and earned high praise from the judging team.
As the event came to a close, awards were presented to the top-performing teams, but every Scout walked away with a sense of achievement and the reassurance that they’re prepared to make a difference when it matters most.
With nearly a century of history behind it, the Blaydon & District First Aid Competition remains a shining example of what Scouting is all about—learning by doing, and being prepared for anything.
