If you've not got a copy, The Essex Challenge 2010 is available to download HERE and was posted out to every Section Leader via their Group Scout Leader or Group Contact.

This month, the county media team give you extra advice on how to turn your activities into media coverage with some top tips;

Getting Good Coverage In Local Newspapers

1 - Have a good story to tell about your activity.

2 - Get pictures that show young people taking part in activities, preferably outdoors.

3 - Supply the story with positive quotes from your young people.

4 - Use direct reporter contacts rather than generic email address for newspapers.

5 - Try and supply good stories frequently, they will eventually start putting them in.

For further help email media@essexscouts.org.uk

If you have a story to share about your challenges, why not upload them onto the county website at www.essexscouts.org.uk/news or email them to challenge@essexscouts.org.uk.

Don't forget that sections are invited to have a go at one challenge each month from the list. The Challenges are linked to the balanced programme, so by taking part Members can progress towards Sectional badges and awards where appropriate. Members who complete a challenge each month can be awarded the Essex Challenge Badge.

For some of the challenges we have suggested linking up with another section, so we would encourage you all to have a chat with the other leaders in your Group, District or even County wide to make this happen.

To help you record those young people who complete the challenges each month there is a record chart which is also available to download HERE.

Badges will be available to order from October 2010 by emailing challenge@essexscouts.org.uk.

We hope you enjoy taking part in the Essex Challenge, any feedback that you may have would be greatly appreciated.