33 Members from the 5th Dartford Scout group’s Earley Scout Troop, Burne Scout Troop and Johnston Explorers made the gruelling cycle ride to The Shaw’s campsite at last weekend for our annual Easter Camp. Friday’s weather could not have been better as we cycled in glorious sunshine although the heat did make the hill climbs a little tougher than last years overcast conditions. Dave organised a great programme with backwoods cooking for the scouts for their first evening meal, including the sourcing of the materials and fire-lighting.
Saturday saw the young folk taking part in orienteering, saw and axe, safe use of knives, fire-lighting, plucking chickens and preparing vegetables for Saturday’s evening meal and as a total surprise and delight to most, Collins-Pack leader Michelle Watts arrived with ice lollies for all and 5 cubs eager to see what the next level of scouting was all about. The cubs took part in the gathering of fire supplies and made dough “Twists” with raisins and chocolate chips, which they toasted over the fire, followed by marshmallows cooked the same way. Upon departure, all of the visiting cubs said they were looking forward to moving up to scouts and we look forward to making that transition a reality when they’re old enough.
Alas the weather on Saturday, which until @ 15:00 was perfect, but fast changed (after the cubs left) in to a sustained deluge for over an hour with a lightening storm who’s epicentre was our campsite and a hailstorm with hailstones the size of large peas; and whilst this dampened our plans (and the fire we spent hours stocking) to cook all the chickens and rabbits in the embers, we had the trusty field kitchen and oven with which the fresh animals were transformed into a culinary delight, which was enjoyed by everyone.
On Sunday the weather was again perfect and after a morning of games and activities, including an Easter egg hunt we broke camp, loaded the van and set off for the cycle home, which due to the hills being predominantly in our favor, was some 2hrs shorter than the outbound journey.
On behalf of everyone at camp, a big thanks to camp leader Dave for his organisation and to all the leaders who gave their time and expertise.
Below are a few pictures from the weekend, but if you have more…………. please send to media@5thdartfordscouts.org.uk
Jack has been a member of the 5th Dartford Scout Group for over 6 years and is actively raising money for the New Hall Fund. On 3rd June this year, Jack will be taking part in the 150 mile Coast to Coast (C2C) cycle ride from Cumbria to Newcastle to raise much needed funds. Jack has already raised over £287 and there’s still 23 days to go.
