Group Camp, Thornthwaite Activity Centre.
On Friday the third of December 6 Cubs, and 19 Scouts from 1st Knaresborough attended one of the first camps since lockdown and certainly the first Group Camp for many years. The weather was forcast poor to average but this did not dampen our spirits. After a site tour, quick wide game and the obligatory campfire, coacoa and crumpets preceeded bedtime. Not much sleep was had on Friday night, despite warnings of inpending fatique, over excitement gained the day/night and alot of talking was heard into the small hours!
Breakfast soon came around and with the help of the young leaders, sausages and beans were dispensed to slighlty chastened, panda-eyed youths. No rest for the giddy, was the name of the day and all sections got stuck in with hikes, first aid trainning, fire lighting, pioneering and generally being kept busy in the fresh air.
Beavers arrived at 10 am after an exploration and some firelighting, retired to the warmth of the Hut for serious games and biscuits.
Saturday night was a much quieter affair as some small compound of fatique and wisdom took effect. Yet another campfire and earier to bed, this time the Scouts were braving the elements and the noisy wind as it blew through the trees onto their tents. Some Scouts opted for an early bath as the flapping of their tents kept them from sleeping, but the majority lasted the night in a great show of pluck.
By Sunday morning the ensamble resembled an early episode of the Waking Dead, but a number soldiered on to complete the Geocache challenge. Thanks to all the parents that turned -up to partake in this family day.
After a barbecue provided by the committeee it was decided that the recommended level of Richmond sauagaes had definitely been exheeded and was probably wise for each family to reutrn home to deal with the consequences according to their own family traditions.
Great to see all of you there and to see real hands-on, grimy Scouting taking place. The kids have missed out on alot over the last two years and it was clear that many were not used to spending time away from their families. Hope fully we can continue, with your support, to offer further growth opportunities to these kids.