I hope you all enjoyed the Summer break and the fantastic weather. It seems that Autumn has blasted in, lets hope that we get our Indian Summer in October. I know lots of you camped in August and of couse we had Moot, our Scout and Guide camp at Bentwaters. For those of you who were there, didn't we have a fantastic time? So many activities for everyone, young and not so young to have a go. Events like this don't just happen, the hard work and commitment of the Leaders was phenomenal. I know that if I start thanking everyone I shall miss someone , so thank you to the organisers and the sub camp leaders and to everyone who made this an unforgettable experience for the Scouts and Guides. I will just say that John Kelway and his fabulous aerial runway builders owe me one!
I met many leaders from Suffolk who were enjoying Gilwell Reunion at the beginning of September. This is a super weekend for Leaders and a chance to chill out. Make a note in your diary to go next year; you won't be sorry.
Have you heard of "Adventures Offshore"? They have two sailing boats moored at Ipswich Haven. For more info go to www.adventuresoffshore.co.uk I was privileged to sail with 1st Clare Explorer Scouts a couple of weeks ago. We sailed from Ipswich to Felixstowe and back with the Explorer Scouts taking the helm and doing all the work. They are a magnificent bunch of young people.
The National AGM held at BP House in London was excellent this year. Keith Gleen and I had a good time.
We met the new CEO, Matt Hyde who incidentally is coming to 1st Hadleigh on 8th October for a question and answer session. If you have a burning question for Matt call Jonathan Moore to book your place. I have also attended Norfolk's AGM and Suffolk Guides' AGM.
Last but not least, SMILE'13 took place over the weekend and what a super event it was. Leaders from the County spent a weekend learning new skills and brushing up on old ones.
Sunday was an open day for Leaders who could have a go at archery, abseiling, shooting and lots lots more. 1st Clare Explorer Scouts were on hand with camp cooking; the pancakes were delicious, thank you girls and guys.
Jenny