A thousand Scouts from across North East Wales came together last weekend at the peak of a heat wave for the first Area camp to be held by Clwyd Scouts for 9 years.
The event took place at Park in the Past in Hope just outside Wrexham, with young people aged 4 to 24 taking part in a massive variety of activities from rock climbing to running a radio station.
A huge team of volunteers put on the camp and had to bring in contingency measures to ensure the young people stayed safe in the high temperatures and sunshine.
Kevin Field, Lead Volunteer for Clwyd Scouts said, “I’m really proud to have led this camp. It was an incredibly complicated project where the event leadership team did everything we could to deliver in the searing heat whilst keeping the young people and adults cool and safe.”
One of the event delivery team Jacob Jones said, “Over the 18 years I’ve been involved in Scouts, I’ve made countless memories and friendships at events like this, so being able to play a part in helping the next generation experience what I was so fortunate to is an amazing feeling.
“Walking round the site, hearing all the young people enjoying themselves, and talking to our amazing volunteers who trusted us enough to bring their young people along have also been real highlights.
“That being said, my favourite moment has to be the silent disco. Six hundred people, in a Roman fort all singing together… truly a goosebump moment!”
Parents and young people also thought the event, named Camp Clwyd in a vote by the youngsters, was a huge success.
Christina Hailwood, mother of 9-year-old Charlie from 2nd Rhyl Scouts said, “I’d like to say a huge thank you to the Scouts for making my lad’s first camping trip one to remember! He has come home full of stories and loved every minute.
“He only joined two weeks before going but they made him feel so welcome and he’s already looking at a bag he wants to buy for his next trip!
“All the hard work has definitely paid off, I hope the leaders get some well deserved rest and are proud of all the amazing memories they have helped make this weekend!”
Jack Thomas aged 10 from Flint said, “My favourite activity was the Xplore base because there were so many things to do and learn. I think it’s really fun for all ages especially if you’re into science.”
During the weekend, several local politicians including MPs and Members of the Senedd attended to get a first-hand look at what was going on.
Sam Rowlands, Senedd Member for North Wales, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Transport & Infrastructure, said, “Scouting is a brilliant way for young people to explore the outdoors, build friendships and learn new skills. We should do as much as possible to encourage these great opportunities for all!”
There hadn’t been a camp on this scale put on by Clwyd Scouts for so long due to a lack of adult volunteers, and the Scouts are still calling for more people to get involved.
Kevin Field continued, “If you aren’t involved, why not? Volunteer even just a little bit of your time and you make a world of difference to young people, give them life changing experiences, and help them develop skills for life.”
To volunteer as an adult or join as a young person visit scouts.org.uk
