The first weekend in July saw Greater London North East’s Scout Link Camp take place at Gilwell Park International Scout Camp Site.

The theme for the camp was ‘The County Being Together’ and with 146 Scouts, 39 Cub Scouts and 41 leaders from 5 Districts joining in we got off to a good start. After setting up on the Friday evening, Saturday morning saw the opening ceremony where the sections brought their flags, which was quite spectacular.

The weather was kind to us and the youngsters made the best of the activities laid on for them which included; Abseiling, Rock Climbing on the wall, Rotary Climbing wall, Crate Stacking, Swimming, Ariel Runway, Archery, Pedal Carts, Jump Mats and indoor activities like Playstation 2 on big screens, pool and table tennis.

Gilwell held a camp fire that many of us attended which was followed by GLNE trying to find budding new singers with ‘Karaoke’ in ‘the Lid’. The last song of the night made sure everyone went straight off because the Assistant County Commissioner and his wife sang ‘I Got You Babe’.. badly!

On Sunday the youngsters had another couple of hours to enjoy themselves before we held our closing ceremony and reflected on what had been a very pleasant couple of days with the County ‘being together’ with a true scouting spirit evident throughout.

GLNE thanks not only those who took part but also the many people who assisted by providing support in various ways; we look forward to our next chance to build on what we have achieved.

Chris Webb | ACC (Scouts)