Scouts Are 24 Hour Party People – But Need Transport Help

A group of Scouts from Wrexham have proved their stamina by staying up for 24 hours at a national activity weekend, but are often stuck for transport.

They joined 4,000 Explorer Scouts, aged 14-18, at the annual Gilwell 24 weekend just outside London. Despite having a great weekend however, the group struggled to get transport to get all their members to the event and are on the look-out for minibuses that they can borrow in future.

Leader Jim Butcher said, “We’ve got a big Unit of over 40 teenagers that we’re keen to take on as many action packed events as we can, but transport is often the issue. Hiring minibuses, like we did this time, is expensive and puts the cost of the weekend beyond the reach of many of our members.”

“If there are any groups, colleges, schools or other organisations out there that have minibuses that we can borrow in the future, we’d be more than happy to make a donation for their use.”

Despite the transport issues, the Scouts were ready and waiting at 9 o’clock Saturday morning to take part in the activities that went on all day and through the night, not stopping until 9 o’clock on the Sunday morning. There is an amazing range of over 80 activities available to keep the youngsters occupied, including climbing, archery, high ropes, scuba diving, 3G swing, flying trapeze and even kayaking and white water rafting at the Olympic Lee Valley White Water Centre.

Laura Bentley, aged 16, from Marchwiel, said “The atmosphere was amazing, even in the early hours of the morning you could still feel the buzz from everyone. There were so many activities that you didn’t even know where to start.”

“My favourite was the flying trapeze, something that I never thought I’d have the chance to do, and was great fun. The number of new people you meet is unbelievable, and the warm weather made the weekend even more enjoyable.”

If anyone can help the Scouts with minibuses, they can call Jim Butcher on 07930 585943 or email [email protected].