Monday 28th July 2014

Apologies for not updating you sooner. Time plays games with you on Scout camp. Sometimes it seems we are set outside of time completely while at other times it's hard to believe how quickly the days slip past. What a fantastic few days we have had though.

When I last posted we were just contemplating the middle Saturday. Activities were once again superb and I even managed a little rock climbing myself putting my life in Charles Julian's hands! It was a hot dusty day up on the rock face and a stop off for cold drinks on the way home was greatly appreciated.

Arriving back on site, things were well underway in preparation for the our mid-camp celebrations. A hog roast in the middle of the field that ensured lashings and lashings of pork and apple sauce for anyone who wanted it followed by chocolate and honeycomb landslide. A fitting start to our celebrations and much thanks must go to Toni from the Lorna Doone who still runs a hotel, restaurant and catering service for willing scout groups - all at the age of 75!!

This was followed by a party in the marquee with sketches put on by the junior HQ, fancy dress and many favourite songs. It was a real 9th Wimbledon day on camp - lots of activity and lots of fun with everyone heading off to bed happy and weary. We have much to be thankful for.

Sunday morning reveille was set for 10.00. A true luxury. Many of the boys were up before then but everyone enjoyed the opportunity to relax and not rush around too much. We had out traditional HQ breakfast. Allowing Tom to thank the leaders for giving up their time so willingly - they even have to pay to come to camp.

The PLs started to prepare for the weekend off and PLs hikes while the APLs took over. I was instructed to take the 4th Year off to Tesco to buy supplies and Mr Day sorted out mess tins, army stoves and tents.

At about 19.00 Niall approached me very quietly:

'Sir, are you planning to take part in the rebellion this year?'

'No, I think my days of that sort of stuff are done really.' I replied. Thinking to myself how history might have changed if rulers had been asked if they were willing to participate in a rebellion before it kicked off.

'Ok sir. Would you mind filming it then?' Said Niall.

'Not at all. What time will the rebellion take place?' I asked.

'Tomorrow, at about 07.45.'

'I'll be ready and I'll keep it to myself.' I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise.

'Many thanks sir.'

Things are really very civilised in the 9th. Thus, this morning, Mr Causton was greeted in not so gentlemanly fashion as he left his tent. Suddenly, scouts and HQ were running all over the place, bundling each other and generally dousing everyone in water. Lots of fun and when everyone was tired, a truce was called, everyone shook hands and life carried on very much as if the whole thing hadn't happened.

A second day of day hikes today followed with trips over Selworthy Beacon and Dunkery Beacon, a dip in the river and onto dinner. Another day was done and all is well. I can't believe it is Tuesday tomorrow!

SRM