Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and adults from across Wansdyke Scout District camped at Somerdale Pavilion over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend. They were taking part in WanJam, the District Jamboree which takes place every four years.

The theme this year was ‘Movie Madness’, and the activities were all based around well-known family films. Activities included climbing, archery, shooting, craft, orienteering and canoeing; there was even an ‘Escape Room’ from which youngsters used logic and skill to escape within a one-hour time limit. Every young person was challenged to try something new to them.

Evelyn, a Cub from First Keynsham Chiltern pack, said: “I’ve had a great time, but the bits I liked best were at the Star Wars training base.”

The event concluded with a show featuring award-winning entertainer Jason Maverick and musical contributions from three talented Scouts, a renewal of the Scout Promise by all members, and the presentation of long-service awards, including a sixty-year award to Derek Bayliss, Wansdyke Scouts’ legal adviser. Margaret de Koning, from Mercury Explorer Unit, received a Chief Scout’s Commendation for her service to Scouting.

The camp was organised by a team led by Janet Turner, of whom District Commissioner, Tina Curtis, said: “Janet and her team have worked tirelessly for over a year to bring this event together, and the young people have all had fun and formed new friendships across the District.”

Janet went on to express the thanks of the District to the management team at Somerdale for their help and cooperation in staging the event.