Forty-one members of Saxon Explorer Scouts and Wansdyke Scout Network, based in Midsomer Norton, will shortly be departing for their annual summer camp, which this year is at De Kluis International Scout and Guide Campsite, Belgium, approximately 20 miles east of Brussels.

Their programme of activities includes visits to the National Scout and Guide Museum and ten pin bowling in Leuven, excursions to Atomium and Mini-Europe attractions in Brussels, together with sightseeing around the city. There are also day trips to Walibi Theme Park to experience the multiple thrilling rides, and to Oceade Water Park.

Time spent in camp will enable the young people to relax, explore the forest surroundings, and swap scout badges and other items with Scouts and Guides camping on site from around the world. They will also be swinging through the trees on a ‘Go-Ape’ style high-ropes course.

One of the highlights of the week includes a trip to Ypres to take part in the WW1 centenary events, where they will visit the battlefields, trenches, monuments and memorials. They will also lay a wreath on behalf of the Scout Association at the Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony.

Explorer Scout Leader Nick Lake said: “Everyone is looking forward to our adventure in Belgium, and we are grateful for the support and generous donations from Dickies Factory Shop, Somerset Fundraising Bars, Midsomer Norton Rotary Club, RBS/Natwest and Lloyds Banking Group.”

Saxons Explorer Unit is also celebrating the presentation of a 25-year service award to Nick Lake, and the Wood Badge award to James Green for completing his leader training.

Any 14-18 year-old wishing to find out more about Explorer Scouting (likewise any adults looking to volunteer), can make contact via the Saxon Explorer website: saxonsesu.scoutsites.org.uk or the Saxon ESU Facebook page.