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12th January 2004

With all the fun of the fair on offer, Gilwell Park's 16th annual Winter Camp proved a big attraction for Scouts and adults alike!

Voted as popular as ever, the first national Scout Camp of the year drew more than 2,000 visitors over the weekend to the headquarters of The Scout Association. The fairground-themed weekend was staged at the international campsite in Bury Road, Chingford.

Aimed at those under the age of 18, more than 1500 young people, gathered for the action-packed weekend, some travelling from as far afield as Wales, Derbyshire and Yorkshire, while others came from Essex, Kent and Surrey. More than 500 adults also joined in the fun!

All came to have a good time, and were eager to show Scouts of today are prepared to take on challenging weather conditions in pursuit of adventure. The event has become infamous for its weather extremes - snow, ice, rain and hail have all made an appearance at previous Camps. This year's muddy conditions just added another element to the fun factor!

Campsite Manager Kerry Judd said: "Part of the challenge is for young people to cope with the cold, as well as testing their camping skills. People know camping in January is never going to be easy and that's definitely one of the appeals for the event."

A weekend of thrills and spills was up for grabs. Activities ranged from Quasar; climbing and abseiling on the Gilwell wall, as well as a chance to tackle a revolving wall; simulator rides, Dodgems, Ferris Wheel and Whirlitzer as well as trying their hand at archery and crafts.

Taking part were Scouts aged between 10.5 and 14 years, and Explorer Scouts aged 14 to 18 years.