Page 14 - Herald December 2024

14 THE NEW COUNTESTHORPE HERALD
EXPLORE 24- COUNTY
GUIDE AND RANGER CAMP
During the month of August, Countesthorpe Guides and Rangers recently had the opportunity to participate in Explore 24, the largest Leicestershire organized guiding camp in the last 25 years.
The event was a fantastic camping experience, bringing together Guides, Rangers, young leaders and adults from all over Leicestershire for five days of challenge, adventure and fun.
Excitedly, we all set off on a Saturday morning for Blackwell Adventure, near Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. On arrival we headed for our subcamp titled “Rainforest” and set up the guiding camp, working as a team to put up tents and the communal living area.
Countesthorpe Rangers were independent from the Guides and were accommodated in the 14-18 subcamp. As part of their role, they also helped with some activities, furthering their leadership skills.
The first afternoon activities involved getting to know the camp and the Opening ceremony, which involved Bhangra dancing, a photo booth and disco for all, where we boogied the evening away. After our first night sleep, it was Castaway day for Countesthorpe guides, which gave them the chance to take part in kayaking or raft building at Pikes Pool. From thereon on Castaway Day, there were two escape pods to challenge everyone, an adventure down the rabbit hole in the World of Alice in Wonderland and a Christmas themed room.
The girls also met a circus skills leader and learned some new circus skills.
OCTOBER 2024
They also took part in some interesting STEM activities, where they explored the human body, and the World around them, drawing on the expertise of adults involved in the guiding movement.
The evening proceeded with a Glitz and Glam night, where there was a Singalong Mamma Mia night, and tribute acts Olivia Rodrigo Experience and Ed Sheeran, with whom we had a guiding photo. It was great fun!
The following day the girls took part in a variety of land- based activities, such as archery, climbing, high ropes, sledging, abseiling, caving, zip lining, crafts followed by a camp- fire for all. This involved lots of singing and audience
participation, with a favourite being “The Mango Song”.
The day after involved a range of puzzle solving activities, in which the guides earned points for their achievements, and this was followed by a swim and inflatable session in the outdoor pool. Later the Closing ceremony took place, a silent disco completed the evening, songs were chosen, and enthusiastic dancing took place.
Special memories were made, and new friendships forged. An experience never to be forgotten, by the Guides, Rangers and Young at Heart leaders.
A wonderful time was had by all, and we wish a very special thankyou to all of those involved in the organization and running of Explore 24.
Natalie Watts
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