Troop Summer Camp 2023
On 22 July we headed off for our week long summer camp, in Trowbridge, Wiltshire. Parents, scouts and leaders loaded to lorry in the sunshine and we all hoped the weather reports for rain had been wrong. It was not to be and by the time everyone arrived on site it was hammering down with rain which persisted the whole time we were setting up. By evening the weather had improved and the scouts were able to cook their first meal of meatballs and pasta and enjoy their first campfire of the week.
The site has the benefit of the river running alongside meaning we can use it for activities throughout the week. So on Sunday morning the patrol leaders and young leaders made a bridge across the river while the younger scouts learnt knife work for whittling and the others made signs for their patrols. In the afternoon everyone took part in challenges as part of the Royal Tournament.
Monday saw the scouts start a rotation of activities (kayaking, raft building and shooting) that would continue on Thursday, so every scout got the opportunity to do all three. Shooting is always a firm favourite but the opportunity to kayak and raft build is one we only get on camp so the scouts had a brilliant time and the river rang with laughter and excited shouts on both days.
It was an early start on Tuesday as the scouts headed for Cheddar Gorge for caving at Goatchurch Cavern. After a busy and fun morning in the caves they went on to Weston Super Mare and enjoyed a Mc Donalds lunch before an afternoon exploring in the sunshine. Every evening on camp follows a routine with tuck shop after dinner followed by a wide game then campfire and supper before bed. That evening the wide game was after campfire so they could play spotlight in the dark which was enjoyed by them all.
On Wednesday morning we had the super scout competition, a series of challenges like the royal tournament but instead of competing as patrols they compete individually. Wow, they are a competitive lot. In the afternoon we had hired a local swimming pool which was enjoyed by all and followed with a much needed shower.
Friday morning started with the annual cooking competition for breakfast. Then we headed off to Combat Splat for a fantastic afternoon of paintballing.
On Saturday we were joined by some parents to help us take everything down before heading home. Despite the weather not being on our side it was a brilliant week and we would like to say a huge well done to the scouts for all their hard work and making camp so much fun for everyone. We would also like to thank everyone who made this week possible from the leadership team, to helpers from elsewhere in the group and of course parents.