Our First Group Camp.

89th Bremore held its first group camp over the May Bank Holiday weekend. 78 young people and 13 scouters set off for Larch Hill on Friday evening braving the bank holiday traffic on the M50. All arrived safely for the scheduled time of 6.30 p.m. and after unloading the gear from the trailer and carrying up pioneering poles to the cub field, set to with great gusto to set up their site. Many willing hands make light work and all tents, tables, benches and pioneering gadgets were up and ready to be occupied in short order. Tent assignments were handed out and all set off to set up their sleeping bags prior to having supper.

All were up bright and early in the morning and looking forward to breakfast. Scouts were on duty for breakfast preparation and clean up and after breakfast all sections headed off to their activities. Beavers went grass sledging, cubs went on the high ropes and the scout section tried their hand at archery. A rumour was heard that scouters tried their hand at the activities but I’m sure that is only a rumour. As the groups had to be split for their activities, a programme was run on site for those who were waiting their turn. Great fun was had by all. After lunch all departed on their group hike with the scout section aiming to reach Fairy Castle.

Camp Chef Therese remained behind to begin the huge task of preparing dinner for over 90

people ably assisted by her staff of three, a scouter, a beaver and a cub! After a delicious meal, we began preparations for campfire. Well done to Adam and Aoife for their Trojan work on the campfire, Adam for the fire and Aoife for the entertainment. Hot chocolate and marshmallows were enjoyed by all before we departed for our well earned rest.

After another early start, the young people departed the site for their environmental programme run by our team of scouts who are working on their Chief Scout Award. The scouters stayed behind to being to break down the site as rain was forecast for later on.

Larch Hill was explored for treasures while each young person made a bird feeder to feed the wildlife.

After lunch, we packed all remaining gear into the trailers, held our closing ceremony and departed for home, tired.

Group Camp was a really enjoyable experience for all.