Over 1,000 Scouts gather for huge camp event in Flintshire
Clwyd Scouts held their first Area camp in nine years last weekend, bringing together around 1,000 young people aged 4 to 24 for a weekend of outdoor activities and community spirit at Park in the Past in Hope, Flintshire.
Taking place during a heatwave, the event saw Scouts try everything from rock climbing to running their own radio station. Organisers implemented contingency plans to keep participants safe in the extreme temperatures.
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.”
Jacob Jones, part of the event delivery team, reflected on the weekend: “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 praised the event, which the participants named Camp Clwyd. 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, added: “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.”
Several local politicians, including MPs and Members of the Senedd, visited the camp during the weekend.
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!”
The large-scale camp had not been held for nine years due to a shortage of adult volunteers, and Clwyd Scouts are still urging people to get involved.
Kevin Field said: “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.”
Anyone interested in volunteering or joining as a young person can visit scouts.org.uk.
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