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All night long

11/07/2011

Could you do a full 24 hours of adventurous activities? Over 3,500 Explorer Scouts came to Gilwell Park last weekend to do just that at Gilwell 24.

This is the most intense experience in the Explorer Scout calendar and this year’s event, like those which have gone before, was enjoyed by all who took on the challenge.

Non-stop excitement

Proceedings began under a blazing sun at 9am on Saturday morning and ran through until 9am on Sunday.

The enormous range of activities on offer included climbing, trapeze, high ropes, pioneering, scuba diving, quad biking and much more. The glorious weather helped to make it a truly special couple of days. 

Activities at all times

‘I have been looking forward to becoming an Explorer Scout for ages just so I can go to Gilwell 24,’ said Izzy from Enfield. ‘It was an awesome event with so many amazing activities. The best bit was going swimming at six o’clock on the Sunday morning.’

Sarah, from Dunstable echoed those sentiments: ‘We met some amazing people. I learned to climb trees, archery and circus skills. I also found I could go without sleep for 24 hours and still function. It was great.’

‘City of tents’

Rachel from Woburn was blown away by the scale of the event. ‘It was an enormous city of tents. We had water fights with super shooters, tried crate stacking and fell off, high wire walking and a terrifying 3G ride. The greatest thrill was seeing the sun rise at 4am; amazing.’

Explorer Units travelled from far and wide, including Scotland and Wales, to participate in the fun.

Pictures

Visit The Scout Association’s Facebook page to view images from Gilwell 24.

 

 

Comments

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By Luke on 11/07/2011 17:57 We had a great weekend finding out what you think about lots of stuff from the British Youth council- make sure you all join our Facebook page (if you went to G24 or not!)www.facebook.com/groups/74182299135 Your Scout Delegation to the BYC :)

By Michael "Orion Explorer Scout Unit" on 11/07/2011 19:07 This was our 4th event, and every year it gets bigger and better, I believe the management team have done wonders with the activity booking with the stickers, by doing it this way cut lines and made the whole weekend enjoyable. If you have never gave it ago before try it now your explorers will love it!

By Paul - Hoboes ESU Waterlooville on 12/07/2011 21:09 Our first time at this 24 hour megga event for Explorers, all enjoyed it and have said they would like to go back next year. would be nice to pre book some of the activities in advance and have them pre printed on lanyard tickets upon arrival but otherwise very well organised event.