78thChrist Church Walmsley Scout Group

The leaders have worked out that in the last seven years of organising a barbecue to mark the end of the summer term, we've had one dry year. Despite yet more rain this year, we still had a good evening, although I think the weather did put a few people off turning out. As usual, thanks to all who helped set up, run, and pack away the various marquees, drinks, cakes, raffle, fires, and live music from leader Rob and band Cobolt Collision ( grateful to Paul and Phil for dragging the rest of us into order! Apologies to those who were inconvenienced including karate on Tuesday who were kind enough to retreat downstairs as upstairs was full of damp marquee, which took until Wednesday night to finally pack away.

Some of the remaining burgers and sausages were put to good use two days after, when the scouts enjoyed a stroll to Egerton chippy, and returned to the hideaway to eat around a couple of barrel fires - a bit of an easy evening for leaders and scouts alike. This was in contrast to the week before when we descended on Bibbys Farm for an evening of activity. In addition to the more normal archery and shooting, we had a go at the site's latest activity - axe throwing! I didn't see much of this being on the shooting range, but I believe leader Tom had to pay up after betting against one axe thrower that he couldn't hit the central target five times in a row! Sometimes a little incentive goes a long way, although I don't think the thrower got "rich quick"!

Despite the end of the school year looming large, our thoughts are on organising summer camp. This year is closer to home (having said that most sites are closer than last year's trip to Dunfermline), and a return to Silverhelme near Carnforth. This site is quite small and often overlooked. I'm hoping for 5 days of glorious sunshine and a site to ourselves. Sometimes even the volunteer staff absent themselves on the weekdays, and we are left to get on with it with just a key for the gate or a telephone number. Again, a little different to last year's Scottish Scout HQ!

Finally, dates for your diaries:

20.09.16 - Supporters Council meeting. 7:30pm Dunscar Conservative Club.

03.10.16 - Supporters Council AGM. 7pm The Hideaway.

05.11.16 - Group bonfire6:30pm with fireworks at 8pm. The Hideaway.

Everyone is welcome to all of the above. Bonfire tickets available in due course.

Andy Jamieson

Group Scout Leader

78th Christ Church Walmsley.