Rushden Scouts go the distance: 24-hour treadmill challenge raises funds for World Scout Jamboree

On Friday 14 August, three determined Scout parents and leaders stepped onto a treadmill at PureGym Rushden with one goal: keep it moving for 24 hours.

Tracking every kilometre! The team proudly displays their impressive 24-hour progress board clocking in at an incredible 267.59km alongside their donation bucket at the finish line. | NorthantsScouts

placeholder image — Tracking every kilometre! The team proudly displays their impressive 24-hour progress board clocking in at an incredible 267.59km alongside their donation bucket at the finish line. | NorthantsScouts

Organised by Mark Bidwell of 2nd Higham Ferrers, alongside Dave and Georgina Tonks, the relay challenge was launched to raise funds to help their eldest children, Kayden and Benjamin, attend the World Scout Jamboree in Poland in 2027.

What began as an ambitious idea quickly turned into a showcase of local community spirit. The three organisers tackled a significant portion of the challenge, joined by nine friends, fellow Scout leaders, and parents who volunteered their time and sleep to take on sections of the relay through the night.

Putting the miles in! Fellow volunteers and friends stepped up to the challenge, giving it a go and keeping the treadmills moving to support the Jamboree journey. | NorthantsScouts

Michele Hunt, District Lead Volunteer for Nene Valley Scouts, dropped by to show her support, racking up over 8km in less than an hour before heading straight off to an Explorer Camp. Fellow gym-goers at PureGym Rushden also rallied behind the team, offering encouragement and donating via a QR code and collection bucket.

By 10:00 am on Saturday morning, the team had achieved an impressive milestone:

267.59 kilometres covered
Over 152,000 steps completed
£437.70 raised

The funds will be split equally between Kayden and Benjamin's fundraising efforts. In 2027, they will join thousands of young people from around the globe in Poland for a celebration of international friendship, adventure, and cultural exchange.

The original trio keeping spirits high! Mark, Dave, and Georgina powering through their 24-hour treadmill relay at PureGym Rushden. | NorthantsScouts

“Challenges like this remind us that Scouting is about far more than us as individuals,” said Mark Bidwell, co-organiser and Scout volunteer. “The success of this 24-hour relay was only possible thanks to the encouragement, donations, and participation of so many people who came together to support us. Every step taken has helped bring Kayden and Benjamin one step closer to Poland.”

To support Kayden and Benjamin’s journey to the 2027 World Scout Jamboree, donations can be made online at: https://www.goodhub.com/go/helpgetbenjaminandkaytowsj