Wednesday, 8 August 2007
Travel News
And the news is... Not good we're afraid. It's 5pm and we're in a
traffic jam on the A14 near Huntingdon. The M6 that we're due to go
on next is down to one lane... So, we're not sure of our eta yet, but
it's not going to be 6.30. More when we know more!
traffic jam on the A14 near Huntingdon. The M6 that we're due to go
on next is down to one lane... So, we're not sure of our eta yet, but
it's not going to be 6.30. More when we know more!
And They're Off!
Hurrah! It's just coming up to 3pm and we've left site! Our best
guess at this stage is arrival between 6 and 6.30pm. Watch this space
for news of traffic jams etc...
guess at this stage is arrival between 6 and 6.30pm. Watch this space
for news of traffic jams etc...
Travel Update
Well, it's now 12.45 - and, amazingly enough, we're not on the
coach... Current delays seem to be about an hour, but it's all a bit
confused! Further updates when we get them!
coach... Current delays seem to be about an hour, but it's all a bit
confused! Further updates when we get them!
Tuesday, 7 August 2007
The Final Curtain
Blimey. It's almost at an end. Just when we thought that the intensity couldn't get any higher, it did last night - and that's continued into today. We sometimes see the Explorers, but, most of the time, they're off swapping things. The Sombreros are looking good!
The rest of today's going to be taken up with starting to take things down, and then, this evening, it's the Closing Ceremony. We're not sure exactly what's going to take place here, but it starts at 9pm and there are rumours of a particularly impressive firework display... I guess it'll be on the Community Channel.
So - how to sum up a pretty unforgettable two weeks? Your intrepid correspondent (okay - it's Andy, hence the intrepid bit!) is at the keyboard with Steve O, and we've looked at that sentance to try and figure out the next one. Erm...
Not sure that we can sum it up easily. What have been the best bits for us are kids wandering in to the campsite with Scouts from all over the world in tow, or have grabbed some clothes and taken them over to the Nigerians, or that they gave their free gift vouchers away. They've been fantastic, and are a huge credit to Solihull, their parents, and to themselves.
They're already planning a reunion in November - and are all signed up as Service Team for the next one - so we think that they've enjoyed themselves! We'll keep the website going for a little while afterwards to get some photos on - please do let Andy have copies - and to ensure that they can keep in touch with each other.
And that's it. There'll be an update tomorrow from the coach, technology permitting, detailing a better estimate as to our arrival time - other than that, thanks for reading, and we came third in the footie!
Cheers,
Andy, Gareth, Naomi, Roy, and Steve.
The rest of today's going to be taken up with starting to take things down, and then, this evening, it's the Closing Ceremony. We're not sure exactly what's going to take place here, but it starts at 9pm and there are rumours of a particularly impressive firework display... I guess it'll be on the Community Channel.
So - how to sum up a pretty unforgettable two weeks? Your intrepid correspondent (okay - it's Andy, hence the intrepid bit!) is at the keyboard with Steve O, and we've looked at that sentance to try and figure out the next one. Erm...
Not sure that we can sum it up easily. What have been the best bits for us are kids wandering in to the campsite with Scouts from all over the world in tow, or have grabbed some clothes and taken them over to the Nigerians, or that they gave their free gift vouchers away. They've been fantastic, and are a huge credit to Solihull, their parents, and to themselves.
They're already planning a reunion in November - and are all signed up as Service Team for the next one - so we think that they've enjoyed themselves! We'll keep the website going for a little while afterwards to get some photos on - please do let Andy have copies - and to ensure that they can keep in touch with each other.
And that's it. There'll be an update tomorrow from the coach, technology permitting, detailing a better estimate as to our arrival time - other than that, thanks for reading, and we came third in the footie!
Cheers,
Andy, Gareth, Naomi, Roy, and Steve.
Monday, 6 August 2007
It's Not Soccer, It's Football
Apologies for the slight lack of updates - it's been difficult to get on the terminals and we've been off-site - Starburst (or, as described by one of the kids, Community Service without the involvement of a judge...).
So - what did we get upto for Starburst? We were split into two groups, and your intrepid correspondent actually managed to get offsite! So, of neccessity, this entry will describe one group more than the other (we didn't manage to get our own media pass and helicopter...).
We went off to Prances Scout campsite. This is a small campsite about half an hour away by coach from Hyland's Park. Once there, we split into two patrols - Roy's to go off in the morning on a little hike, your intrepid correspondent's to do some work on site - viz. painting, benchmaking, and fence repair. The benchmaking and fence repair went well. See if you can spot the missing entry...
Yup. Teenage kids. Paint. Teenage kids, paint. Teenage kids - paint. Whichever way you put it, it don't look good... In their defence, some of it went on the building. As to the rest? There were a few showers required!
After lunch, it was off for our hike. As it turned out, this was less a hike and more of a small womble. The Americans lead off, singing marching songs. The Germans and British consequently fell behind somewhat... In a cruel twist, the route went past THREE pubs - and your intrepid correspondent wasn't allowed in any of them! It also went past some exceedingly big houses, and an ice cream shop that was most welcome, 'cause it's been getting hotter...
The other group, meantimes, went off to an Alzheimer's Society place, and spend some quality time sleeping. This allowed them to build up enough energy to do a bit of weeding in the afternoon! More on this when I have one of them with me...
And then to today, Monday. There's a big football competition underway, and we're on shortly. It's beginning to dawn on people that it will soon be over - the day of Day Visitors is today, the Plaza shuts tomorrow. It feels like we've been here for ages - but that it's over too soon...
Watch this space for thesoccer football results!
So - what did we get upto for Starburst? We were split into two groups, and your intrepid correspondent actually managed to get offsite! So, of neccessity, this entry will describe one group more than the other (we didn't manage to get our own media pass and helicopter...).
We went off to Prances Scout campsite. This is a small campsite about half an hour away by coach from Hyland's Park. Once there, we split into two patrols - Roy's to go off in the morning on a little hike, your intrepid correspondent's to do some work on site - viz. painting, benchmaking, and fence repair. The benchmaking and fence repair went well. See if you can spot the missing entry...
Yup. Teenage kids. Paint. Teenage kids, paint. Teenage kids - paint. Whichever way you put it, it don't look good... In their defence, some of it went on the building. As to the rest? There were a few showers required!
After lunch, it was off for our hike. As it turned out, this was less a hike and more of a small womble. The Americans lead off, singing marching songs. The Germans and British consequently fell behind somewhat... In a cruel twist, the route went past THREE pubs - and your intrepid correspondent wasn't allowed in any of them! It also went past some exceedingly big houses, and an ice cream shop that was most welcome, 'cause it's been getting hotter...
The other group, meantimes, went off to an Alzheimer's Society place, and spend some quality time sleeping. This allowed them to build up enough energy to do a bit of weeding in the afternoon! More on this when I have one of them with me...
And then to today, Monday. There's a big football competition underway, and we're on shortly. It's beginning to dawn on people that it will soon be over - the day of Day Visitors is today, the Plaza shuts tomorrow. It feels like we've been here for ages - but that it's over too soon...
Watch this space for the
Saturday, 4 August 2007
Ticket to Ride
We've now been given a departure time - 12:45 on Wednesday - so will probably return at around about 16:30 at the Regency Hotel.
However, there are a lot of variables, so please do check the website before heading out for pick-up - we should be able to update it from the coach, so will be able to give a better indication of time as we get closer to Solihull.
However, there are a lot of variables, so please do check the website before heading out for pick-up - we should be able to update it from the coach, so will be able to give a better indication of time as we get closer to Solihull.
Hot in the City
After yesterday's brief interlude, normal authorship is resumed... So - what's the latest news from Wadi?
It's hot, hot, hot! is the main headline. Although the forecast for the early part of next week doesn't look so good (boo!), at the moment it's hot down here. So - we're getting through a lot of suncream, and Sainsbury's are doing a roaring trade in drinks.
Today's programme was Aquaville, which ended up confusing most people. Primarily 'cause it didn't seem to have too much to do with water... However, there were alot of activities there, and the Explorers had the opportunity to crack the whip, build a house, have a cycle competition, kick rugby balls (current Jamboree record holder, Mark W...) and a whole lot more.
Once they'd done that, though, they did return to camp - which is now somewhat like an Aqua Ville - as there's the Mother of All Water Fights going on out there (your intrepid correspondent has sought refuge in the Internet Cafe!). So expect water rationing in the South East some point in the near future.
In terms of other news, Tom managed a night in the camp, and is a LOT better this morning, which is exceedingly good news! Anyhow, enjoy the BBQs tonight, and once more into the (damp) breach!
It's hot, hot, hot! is the main headline. Although the forecast for the early part of next week doesn't look so good (boo!), at the moment it's hot down here. So - we're getting through a lot of suncream, and Sainsbury's are doing a roaring trade in drinks.
Today's programme was Aquaville, which ended up confusing most people. Primarily 'cause it didn't seem to have too much to do with water... However, there were alot of activities there, and the Explorers had the opportunity to crack the whip, build a house, have a cycle competition, kick rugby balls (current Jamboree record holder, Mark W...) and a whole lot more.
Once they'd done that, though, they did return to camp - which is now somewhat like an Aqua Ville - as there's the Mother of All Water Fights going on out there (your intrepid correspondent has sought refuge in the Internet Cafe!). So expect water rationing in the South East some point in the near future.
In terms of other news, Tom managed a night in the camp, and is a LOT better this morning, which is exceedingly good news! Anyhow, enjoy the BBQs tonight, and once more into the (damp) breach!
Friday, 3 August 2007
On Hospitals, Part Two
A quick update with some good news - Tom's out of hospital, so the contingent is once again complete!
Thursday, Part Two
As promised, more on what happened at Gilwell from Chris and Jono, who had the advantage of actually being there, in their own, unique, uncensored, style...
Please don't sue... :o)
To start the activity the group was given a guided tour of Gilwell park, but was not understood because of the dude's German accent! After the thrills of the tour we headed into the barn; which had been converted into a museum of scouting (the fun!), where we watched a video all about the history of scouting and Baden Powell.
Once we had survived the excitement of the first part, it was off to the assault course this iswhen the action started! To start we had a bit of fun showing an American guy the joys of being on the receiving end of a bit of British humour... After that it was fun all the way we ran down a long track taking people down in our paths, then into the slide, over the fence ALOT!and just before we were ready to die of oxygen starvation they chucked in a rope we had to climb its fair to say we were ready to drop by the end.
Then the well deserved lunch for a short while with the entertainment of some morris dancers (not us!) and of course Keir and his trigger happy stunts. We were then rushed off to the best part of the day making our own food which also included fire. Also tying to convince jamboree staff that jono needed to brand me with the jamboree logo (Andy's note to Chris's Mum - he didn't convince them - he's okay!).
After failing to brand chris we decided the next best option was to have a go on the soaking wet trampolines as this was the next best way to hurt ourselves. After messing around on these for a while and failing to cause any mischief or pain it was time to head back to get on the coach.
Once on the coach, the majority of us decided to have a sleep after our fun filled day at Gilwell, meanwhile the rest of us just bullied the ones that were sleeping (pen mistoches etc.) Once back at camp we had some tasty tuccer and chilled out for a bit on the site.
Please don't sue... :o)
Thursday, 2 August 2007
Thursday, Part One
This is going to be a quick update, for various reasons - the main of which is that, since the untimely demise of Andy's laptop, we're reliant upon the Internet Cafes - and it's been ever more difficult to get a terminal!
So - what's been happening today? It was (yet another!) early start, 'cause we were off to Gilwell. Where, erm, people did stuff... Apologies, but your Intrepid Correspondent was up all night sorting out Tom M, so didn't get top go to Gilwell. We'll post an update as to what happened there tomorrow!
And then dinner. Which was excellent. Superb. Without equal. Possibly cooked by the writer... :o)
This evening's been full of activities - for example, a kareokee (it's spelt something like that!) version of "By The Way" by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers sung by some Italians in English to a load of Taiwanese in traditional costume. Which isn't something you see every day...
Much more to follow tomorrow. Latest position on transport is that we should be able to give details on Sunday...
So - what's been happening today? It was (yet another!) early start, 'cause we were off to Gilwell. Where, erm, people did stuff... Apologies, but your Intrepid Correspondent was up all night sorting out Tom M, so didn't get top go to Gilwell. We'll post an update as to what happened there tomorrow!
And then dinner. Which was excellent. Superb. Without equal. Possibly cooked by the writer... :o)
This evening's been full of activities - for example, a kareokee (it's spelt something like that!) version of "By The Way" by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers sung by some Italians in English to a load of Taiwanese in traditional costume. Which isn't something you see every day...
Much more to follow tomorrow. Latest position on transport is that we should be able to give details on Sunday...
On Hospitals
A quick update. Some of you may be aware that Tom M's suffered an allergic reaction to something, and has been in and out of hospital for the past few days. He's currently having a bit of a rest in hospital, but is generally fine!
Wednesday, 1 August 2007
Media Darlings Part Three
We've finally had (some) success on the pictures front - head over to www.solihullscoutcounty.org.uk to see a couple of them (proves that they're still alive - and contry to some suggestions - clean!). There's also a download of the BBC WM interview, thanks to Ian Carpenter.
So, apart from trying to ensure that we took the opportunity to maximise local publicity, what else have we been up to? After a cold early start at 5:30 this morning, it's just got hotter and hotter here, so there's been a lot of hot Explorers. It's fair to say that we've got through a fair amount of sunblock today... It also turned out to be a bad day for the exploration of food day - we brought Cadbury's chocolate as representative of our area. It melted somewhat...
The Explorers have spent much of the day mooching round the site, meeting people. For example, Andy and Sue - you may find that you have some entries for Switzerland on your 'phone bill upon our return... We've also had a visit from a Greek Scout who spoke pretty fluent English - not surprisingly, as he only moved to Greece from Solihull two years ago!
Tomorrow's programme is offsite to Gilwell Park - a day of climbing things and jumping off things. We're hoping that they all return intact!
So, apart from trying to ensure that we took the opportunity to maximise local publicity, what else have we been up to? After a cold early start at 5:30 this morning, it's just got hotter and hotter here, so there's been a lot of hot Explorers. It's fair to say that we've got through a fair amount of sunblock today... It also turned out to be a bad day for the exploration of food day - we brought Cadbury's chocolate as representative of our area. It melted somewhat...
The Explorers have spent much of the day mooching round the site, meeting people. For example, Andy and Sue - you may find that you have some entries for Switzerland on your 'phone bill upon our return... We've also had a visit from a Greek Scout who spoke pretty fluent English - not surprisingly, as he only moved to Greece from Solihull two years ago!
Tomorrow's programme is offsite to Gilwell Park - a day of climbing things and jumping off things. We're hoping that they all return intact!
Media Darlings Part Two
Hmm. Well, you all sat and listened to BBC CWR. Meantimes, over on BBC WM, two of the contingent, Peter H and Flick J were interviewed on Edd Doolan's show... Oops. Apologies for that, but if anyone did hear it and / or managed to record it, please do let us know.
We've just issued the following Press Release:
"8am, 01 August. 39 Scouts from Solihull joined in with 40,000 others at the World Scout Jamboree at Hylands Park in Essex to renew their promise to work together. This was the start of a long day for the Scouts as they had to be up at 5:30 in the morning to get everything ready, and to ensure that everyone was in place for the occasion. There was a live video link to Brownsea Island, where Scouting began exactly 100 years ago, and the Sunrise was kicked off by Peter Duncan, the UK's Chief Scout.
Steve O'Grady, head of the Solihull Contingent SolJam commented "To see so many people in one place was fantastic! We've been having an awesome time at the Jamboree meeting people from 160 countries, but to see them all there at 8 o'clock this morning was mind blowing!"
The SolJam contingent have been on site for six days now, and have a week to go. Their site is easily identifiable by the Land Rovers on the Gate. They're joined by Argentinians one side and South Koreans on the other. Commenting on the Jamboree so far, Paul Thomas (pictured) said "I've had an amazing time so far. There have been loads of activities, and I've met people from around the world. Getting up so early in the morning's tiring though!"
Solihull Scouts have managed to make the news whilst they've been here. Their flags figured on the cover of "One Word", the Jamboree Newspaper, some of them have been seen on BBC News 24, they've been filmed for Japanese television, and two of the contingent, Felicity Jeyes and Peter Hopton, were interviewed live on BBC Radio WM's Edd Doolan show.
Ends."
Hopefully, we're now getting somewhere with the pictures! Check out http://www.solihullscoutcounty.org.uk/, where, all being well, there should be a couple of pictures from here!
Further update later. Bye for now!
We've just issued the following Press Release:
"8am, 01 August. 39 Scouts from Solihull joined in with 40,000 others at the World Scout Jamboree at Hylands Park in Essex to renew their promise to work together. This was the start of a long day for the Scouts as they had to be up at 5:30 in the morning to get everything ready, and to ensure that everyone was in place for the occasion. There was a live video link to Brownsea Island, where Scouting began exactly 100 years ago, and the Sunrise was kicked off by Peter Duncan, the UK's Chief Scout.
Steve O'Grady, head of the Solihull Contingent SolJam commented "To see so many people in one place was fantastic! We've been having an awesome time at the Jamboree meeting people from 160 countries, but to see them all there at 8 o'clock this morning was mind blowing!"
The SolJam contingent have been on site for six days now, and have a week to go. Their site is easily identifiable by the Land Rovers on the Gate. They're joined by Argentinians one side and South Koreans on the other. Commenting on the Jamboree so far, Paul Thomas (pictured) said "I've had an amazing time so far. There have been loads of activities, and I've met people from around the world. Getting up so early in the morning's tiring though!"
Solihull Scouts have managed to make the news whilst they've been here. Their flags figured on the cover of "One Word", the Jamboree Newspaper, some of them have been seen on BBC News 24, they've been filmed for Japanese television, and two of the contingent, Felicity Jeyes and Peter Hopton, were interviewed live on BBC Radio WM's Edd Doolan show.
Ends."
Hopefully, we're now getting somewhere with the pictures! Check out http://www.solihullscoutcounty.org.uk/, where, all being well, there should be a couple of pictures from here!
Further update later. Bye for now!
Media Darlings
Okay - slight calmness after the somewhat hectic activity around Scouting Sunrise. It's now 10:30am, and we've been up for 5 hours so far...
So - what happened with the BBC? Erm - we were kinda on it. As far as we can work out, what actually happened is that, as the BBC were broadcasting, we were filmed - by Japanese TV. So, it looks like we'll be on TV, for those readers in the Tokyo area...
There'll be another update later, and we're getting ever closer to being able to load some photos onto the Flickr account. Tune back later for more!
So - what happened with the BBC? Erm - we were kinda on it. As far as we can work out, what actually happened is that, as the BBC were broadcasting, we were filmed - by Japanese TV. So, it looks like we'll be on TV, for those readers in the Tokyo area...
There'll be another update later, and we're getting ever closer to being able to load some photos onto the Flickr account. Tune back later for more!
Tuesday, 31 July 2007
Radio Gaga
Okay - as promised, a quick update. We think that it's going to be BBC CWR - but will post another note if we get more definitive information...
Tuesday's Tales
Tuesday dawned - hot and sunny! Bugler, erm - that looks wrong - bloke with trumpet type thing now not sounding until 7am, so all much better first thing in the morning!
Today's morning programme was Rubbish. Garbage. Actually, it was neither of those things - it was Trash. Yup - that was the actual title of the thing - we live in a kind of US English / French hybrid world here... The Explorers seemed to enjoy it - they had to build something from rubbish (thought to be Not Bad), make lots of noise with rubbish things (Very Good), answer a general knowledge quiz about rubbish (gosh, is that the time? Gotta go...).
And the afternoon's programme was Choice. A whole variety of activities, on which, unfortunately, your Intrepid correspondent is only able to comment on one, Energise, 'cause it's the only one he got to... Apologies for news gathering capabilities being a bit limited...
Anyhow, Energise. This is designed as an outlet for the Vast Amount of Energy Kids Have, assuming that a. they've not been on a camp for six days and b. it's not bleedin' warm... However, despite a. and b. those that went all had a go on activities as diverse as circus skills ("look at me! I can balance on a.... Ow!") and scuba diving, with BMXes, skateboards, half pipes, football, basketball, and a whole lot more all making an appearence. Needless to say, the Explorers are sleeping soundly at night...
Apart from that, what else to report? Tomorrow's programme is Scouting Sunrise, which requires us to all be in place in the Main Arena before 8am. Ouch. Which means we have to meet at 6:35am. Ouch, squared. Which means that we have to get up at 5:30am... Which is going to be exceedingly painful for many people! However, we should, hopefully, get some news coverage, so keep an eye out for some more coverage from the Jamboree. In a similar vein, our Young Spokespeople, Peter H and Vickie H should be live on BBC Radio Something at 10:40am tomorrow. Unfortunately, the details were given to Peter, who managed to forget the specifics inbetween his meeting with the UK Contingent Media people and getting back to the campsite... He has been dispatched to try and get the useful bit of information about which BBC radio station it's going to be, and as soon as we know this we'll post a quick note here!
Also in the media, hopefully, will be a picture of SolJam at tomorrow's Scouting Sunrise! Admittedly, it's only (hopefully) going to be in the Solihull News, but keep an eye out for it. Unfortunately, we lost out in the draw for a representative from SolJam to join others from Wadi (our sub-camp) who are going to be talking live to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday...
That's about it, apart from to add that we have a visit from Phil. P's family today, and that the Leaders all had a very nice meal in the German beer tent! More later!
Today's morning programme was Rubbish. Garbage. Actually, it was neither of those things - it was Trash. Yup - that was the actual title of the thing - we live in a kind of US English / French hybrid world here... The Explorers seemed to enjoy it - they had to build something from rubbish (thought to be Not Bad), make lots of noise with rubbish things (Very Good), answer a general knowledge quiz about rubbish (gosh, is that the time? Gotta go...).
And the afternoon's programme was Choice. A whole variety of activities, on which, unfortunately, your Intrepid correspondent is only able to comment on one, Energise, 'cause it's the only one he got to... Apologies for news gathering capabilities being a bit limited...
Anyhow, Energise. This is designed as an outlet for the Vast Amount of Energy Kids Have, assuming that a. they've not been on a camp for six days and b. it's not bleedin' warm... However, despite a. and b. those that went all had a go on activities as diverse as circus skills ("look at me! I can balance on a.... Ow!") and scuba diving, with BMXes, skateboards, half pipes, football, basketball, and a whole lot more all making an appearence. Needless to say, the Explorers are sleeping soundly at night...
Apart from that, what else to report? Tomorrow's programme is Scouting Sunrise, which requires us to all be in place in the Main Arena before 8am. Ouch. Which means we have to meet at 6:35am. Ouch, squared. Which means that we have to get up at 5:30am... Which is going to be exceedingly painful for many people! However, we should, hopefully, get some news coverage, so keep an eye out for some more coverage from the Jamboree. In a similar vein, our Young Spokespeople, Peter H and Vickie H should be live on BBC Radio Something at 10:40am tomorrow. Unfortunately, the details were given to Peter, who managed to forget the specifics inbetween his meeting with the UK Contingent Media people and getting back to the campsite... He has been dispatched to try and get the useful bit of information about which BBC radio station it's going to be, and as soon as we know this we'll post a quick note here!
Also in the media, hopefully, will be a picture of SolJam at tomorrow's Scouting Sunrise! Admittedly, it's only (hopefully) going to be in the Solihull News, but keep an eye out for it. Unfortunately, we lost out in the draw for a representative from SolJam to join others from Wadi (our sub-camp) who are going to be talking live to the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday...
That's about it, apart from to add that we have a visit from Phil. P's family today, and that the Leaders all had a very nice meal in the German beer tent! More later!
Monday, 30 July 2007
It's, erm, What Day is it?!
We just had to check - days seem to rush by whilst we're here! It's only a quick update I'm afraid, as there's a UK Contingent Leaders in about, well - now, actually!
So - what have we been up to? Today's programme was "Terraville" - with various activities provided by various countries. Some of the Explorers raced round in a few minutes - others took longer. All, agreed, however, that it was a Quite A Good Thing.
The other highlight of today for many of them has been exploring The Plaza. This has stands from many different countries offering highlights from their countries. So, for example, from the quite fabulous German Beer Tent it's possible to get a Stein of (non-alcholic) beer, or some quite unique Czech lemonade from the Czech stand. Andy and Giles have both bought Bush Hats - from guess where?!
So - a good day overall. We also played host to 2nd Balsall Common for some of the day, and, for the second day running, managed to avoid a prevelence of carbon in the food! The sun's out and the food's good!
Apologies for the lack of photo updates. The plan to update the Flickr page failed when it rained and Andy's tent leaked - he poured the water out of the laptop the following morning... We're working on a Plan B and will let you know if and when we can get some pictures up.
And a clarification from yesterday - the music was from DJ sets on the stages, rather than the actual bands. Allegedly Peter Andre wanted £12k to perform live - we seemed to have had a lucky escape...
So - what have we been up to? Today's programme was "Terraville" - with various activities provided by various countries. Some of the Explorers raced round in a few minutes - others took longer. All, agreed, however, that it was a Quite A Good Thing.
The other highlight of today for many of them has been exploring The Plaza. This has stands from many different countries offering highlights from their countries. So, for example, from the quite fabulous German Beer Tent it's possible to get a Stein of (non-alcholic) beer, or some quite unique Czech lemonade from the Czech stand. Andy and Giles have both bought Bush Hats - from guess where?!
So - a good day overall. We also played host to 2nd Balsall Common for some of the day, and, for the second day running, managed to avoid a prevelence of carbon in the food! The sun's out and the food's good!
Apologies for the lack of photo updates. The plan to update the Flickr page failed when it rained and Andy's tent leaked - he poured the water out of the laptop the following morning... We're working on a Plan B and will let you know if and when we can get some pictures up.
And a clarification from yesterday - the music was from DJ sets on the stages, rather than the actual bands. Allegedly Peter Andre wanted £12k to perform live - we seemed to have had a lucky escape...
Sunday, 29 July 2007
Evening All!
A quick update at 10:30. The Explorers are off all over the place, meeting up with kids from everywhere. There's the Klaxons booming out from one stage, and Artic Monkeys from another. It's fair to say that they're having a good evening...
More tomorrow. :o)
More tomorrow. :o)
Washing Up Part Two
"HOW long does it take to do the washing up" was the question asked. Presumably, by someone who hasn't seen Explorer Scouts in action! We think we've invented a new compound of carbon and aluminium, impervious to all chemical cleaners and scourers!
So - what's been happening? Apologies for the delay since the last update, but there's been some problems setting up the Internet cafe, and it's very labourious updating this via my 'phone (it's also my excuse for some of the typos in the WE'RE HERE! update, too!).
We arrived and set up camp. We're in the Wadi sub-camp - on one side we have some Scouts from Argentina, the other Korean. Behind us are some Poles. However, none of them were here when we got here on Thursday. We arrived and dragged the stuff across the site, and then set up the tents (in the rain...). Our proto-typing at Kibblestone paid off, though, as the site layout works exceedingly well. Once the tents were up the rain stopped...
And then it was the UK Contingent Party with JK, Lamar, Liberty X (the Explorers) / an exceedingly exciting one hour talk (not) for the Leaders... It's fair to say that the Explorers seemed to have a good time!
And then Friday! Let's meet the foreign contingents! We're responsible for meeting and greeting five of them. As soon as they get here we're off! They'll be here soon...
Later that day, they still hadn't arrived... Then, mid-afternoon, the French arrive! Hurrah! Er - bonjour. Would you like a drink? Non, s'il vous plait. Oh. The French are more than capable of sorting themselves out. Then the Koreans arrive. Er - hello. Would you like a hand with your tents? Er - no thanks. The Koreans are more than capable of looking after themselves - donning particularly natty gloves for the process of putting up their very cool tents.
Eventually, about 11pm, we managed to feed the Argentines, which I think they appreciated... They certainly ate it all!
So - that was Day Two. Day Three was The Opening. We met up at the sub-camp around about 10:30, for some music and the sub-camp opening. Many many nationalities there, which was exceedingly cool. However, it is fair to say that the Macarana is not an international export! They found it all somewhat bemusing - and we're equally bemused by the Time Warp, too! And then the formal ceremony itself.
There's a vast stage set up, and it was an impressive sight with 48,000 people there. The opening part of it had the flags from the four constiuent countries of the UK represented, along with a little dance to represent each one. It's fair to say that, at home, I find all the pesky maypole dancers a pain, as they're all over the place! At least, they are according to the opening ceremony! Some of it was a bit cheesy, but the bit that brought home what the Jamboree is all about was the flags of all the participant countries being represented - over 150 of them. There are countries here that we haven't heard of. Most of the visitors were also suitably impressed by the heir to the throne (William) turning up, too. (He has a very nice helicopter!).
And now it's Sunday. We're off at 11am to Splash - the water activities day. Watch this space for more, and please do keeping adding comments - we're feeding them back to the Explorers!
So - what's been happening? Apologies for the delay since the last update, but there's been some problems setting up the Internet cafe, and it's very labourious updating this via my 'phone (it's also my excuse for some of the typos in the WE'RE HERE! update, too!).
We arrived and set up camp. We're in the Wadi sub-camp - on one side we have some Scouts from Argentina, the other Korean. Behind us are some Poles. However, none of them were here when we got here on Thursday. We arrived and dragged the stuff across the site, and then set up the tents (in the rain...). Our proto-typing at Kibblestone paid off, though, as the site layout works exceedingly well. Once the tents were up the rain stopped...
And then it was the UK Contingent Party with JK, Lamar, Liberty X (the Explorers) / an exceedingly exciting one hour talk (not) for the Leaders... It's fair to say that the Explorers seemed to have a good time!
And then Friday! Let's meet the foreign contingents! We're responsible for meeting and greeting five of them. As soon as they get here we're off! They'll be here soon...
Later that day, they still hadn't arrived... Then, mid-afternoon, the French arrive! Hurrah! Er - bonjour. Would you like a drink? Non, s'il vous plait. Oh. The French are more than capable of sorting themselves out. Then the Koreans arrive. Er - hello. Would you like a hand with your tents? Er - no thanks. The Koreans are more than capable of looking after themselves - donning particularly natty gloves for the process of putting up their very cool tents.
Eventually, about 11pm, we managed to feed the Argentines, which I think they appreciated... They certainly ate it all!
So - that was Day Two. Day Three was The Opening. We met up at the sub-camp around about 10:30, for some music and the sub-camp opening. Many many nationalities there, which was exceedingly cool. However, it is fair to say that the Macarana is not an international export! They found it all somewhat bemusing - and we're equally bemused by the Time Warp, too! And then the formal ceremony itself.
There's a vast stage set up, and it was an impressive sight with 48,000 people there. The opening part of it had the flags from the four constiuent countries of the UK represented, along with a little dance to represent each one. It's fair to say that, at home, I find all the pesky maypole dancers a pain, as they're all over the place! At least, they are according to the opening ceremony! Some of it was a bit cheesy, but the bit that brought home what the Jamboree is all about was the flags of all the participant countries being represented - over 150 of them. There are countries here that we haven't heard of. Most of the visitors were also suitably impressed by the heir to the throne (William) turning up, too. (He has a very nice helicopter!).
And now it's Sunday. We're off at 11am to Splash - the water activities day. Watch this space for more, and please do keeping adding comments - we're feeding them back to the Explorers!
Saturday, 28 July 2007
Thursday, 26 July 2007
WE'RE HERE!
An update at 5.30pm. We set off in the rain, which stopped around
Cambridge. Hurrah! We then registered at an airfield somewhere -
only to be delayed by some Government vehicle inspector type people
(it passed!). This delay was going to prove somewhat material later
on...).
Cambridge. Hurrah! We then registered at an airfield somewhere -
only to be delayed by some Government vehicle inspector type people
(it passed!). This delay was going to prove somewhat material later
on...).
We then arrived at Hylands Park - after 18 months hard work we're
here! Hurrah! It was then a 30 minute trek across to our site - and
we arrived just in time for the rain... Grrr. Annoying delay now
even more annoying...
So it rained. Until we put the tents up. Then it stopped. Tssk!
However it does now mean that the sun's out, and we're just off to
find the BBQ!
It's Begun!
I'm posting this at 6:30am (!), having dropped the "Welsh 3" off - Alice, Lizzie, and Vickie are on their way to Swansea. So - after all the fund raising, meetings, more fund raising, (lots!) more meetings - it's finally happening!
I received a few texts last night (I know when you pack!) about cutlery and plates - you don't need them, we took them down in May. So, that's a (little) bit more room in your bag, then.
Talking of packing, I'm off to do mine. See you at 10!
Cheers,
Andy
I received a few texts last night (I know when you pack!) about cutlery and plates - you don't need them, we took them down in May. So, that's a (little) bit more room in your bag, then.
Talking of packing, I'm off to do mine. See you at 10!
Cheers,
Andy
Wednesday, 25 July 2007
Weather to Pack Wellies
25 hours to go! Looking at the weather forecast, it looks like it could well be damp when we get there. Consequently:
- Do ensure that your walking boots are easily accessible. It won't be too useful if they're at the bottom of your bag when we get there.
- Remember that we have to travel in uniform. Consider wearing your uniform shorts tomorrow - usefully, legs are waterproof!
- Do ensure that your Jamboree coat's accessible - even if it's not raining when we actually get the coach.
- Do pack everything in your bag in plastic bags - ESPECIALLY YOUR SLEEPING BAG!
- Do ensure that your walking boots are easily accessible. It won't be too useful if they're at the bottom of your bag when we get there.
- Remember that we have to travel in uniform. Consider wearing your uniform shorts tomorrow - usefully, legs are waterproof!
- Do ensure that your Jamboree coat's accessible - even if it's not raining when we actually get the coach.
- Do pack everything in your bag in plastic bags - ESPECIALLY YOUR SLEEPING BAG!
Tuesday, 24 July 2007
Picture This
If you've not yet looked at the pictures of the site so far, then they're available here!
** Update ** Having looked again at the pictures, the Main Stage is the Other Stage from Glastonbury! Wonder how the mud's going to compare..?
** Update ** Having looked again at the pictures, the Main Stage is the Other Stage from Glastonbury! Wonder how the mud's going to compare..?
The Latest from the Site
Have a look at the BBC Web Site link - more information about how things are going. Including the fact that, so far, they've erected 500 out of the 1,000 tents gong up on the site (excluding all the contingent tents!).
Monday, 23 July 2007
Hungry for Information?
We had the last Leaders' Meeting tonight before the Jamboree, which was a combination of pointing out how knackered we all are and worrying over all the things we've forgotten. In terms of the Jamboree:
- Bring a packed lunch on Thursday. It's going to be a bit chaotic at some points as we get everyone registered and try to get the site set up and retrieve the kit that we took down in April... Consequently, there's only going to be one way to guarantee that you get lunch on Thursday, and that's to bring it with you!
- From the school of Muddy Camping in a Big Field - bring a packet of wet wipes with you to carry round with you on the site. If you decide you fancy some food or something, it's going to be a bit of a trek to the loos to wash your hands...
- We had medical forms off everyone back in April. However, there may have been changes since then - if so, please can you let us know on Thursday. If you need to bring medicine, please do let us know. AND REMEMBER YOUR INHALER (CHRISTOPHER...)!
- Bring a packed lunch on Thursday. It's going to be a bit chaotic at some points as we get everyone registered and try to get the site set up and retrieve the kit that we took down in April... Consequently, there's only going to be one way to guarantee that you get lunch on Thursday, and that's to bring it with you!
- From the school of Muddy Camping in a Big Field - bring a packet of wet wipes with you to carry round with you on the site. If you decide you fancy some food or something, it's going to be a bit of a trek to the loos to wash your hands...
- We had medical forms off everyone back in April. However, there may have been changes since then - if so, please can you let us know on Thursday. If you need to bring medicine, please do let us know. AND REMEMBER YOUR INHALER (CHRISTOPHER...)!
Summertime, and the Living is...
... Damp. There's no suggestion that Chelmsford (and hence the Jamboree Site) is going to have any of the problems that have been encountered in Gloustershire / Worcestershire. However, it's fair to say that, a couple of days away from when we go (gulp!) - the weather's going to be mixed.
This won't stop us doing anything, rest assured. However, we do suggest that people do take decent walking boots / wellies with them, 'cause there might be some mud around in places!
This won't stop us doing anything, rest assured. However, we do suggest that people do take decent walking boots / wellies with them, 'cause there might be some mud around in places!
Friday, 20 July 2007
Travel Arrangements
Hopefully everyone is aware of these now! However, just in case, here's a reminder...
Thursday 26 July
04:45 Andy will collect Alice, Lizzie, and Vicki from Vicki's house.
05:30 Meet Welsh Coach at Frankley Services
10:00 Meet Regency Hotel.
10:30 Depart for 21st World Scout Jamboree
A reminder - you'll need to meet in uniform, hang round services in uniform, arrive at the Jamboree in uniform. However, if you wish to change into your SolJam Polo Shirt for the bits on the coach you'll be able to.
Wednesday 08 August
We still don't have return details - and we probably won't get them until we're on the Jamboree itself (we're down the pecking order of importance behind those that have 'planes and trains to catch!). Once we get them we'll post them here!
Thursday 26 July
04:45 Andy will collect Alice, Lizzie, and Vicki from Vicki's house.
05:30 Meet Welsh Coach at Frankley Services
10:00 Meet Regency Hotel.
10:30 Depart for 21st World Scout Jamboree
A reminder - you'll need to meet in uniform, hang round services in uniform, arrive at the Jamboree in uniform. However, if you wish to change into your SolJam Polo Shirt for the bits on the coach you'll be able to.
Wednesday 08 August
We still don't have return details - and we probably won't get them until we're on the Jamboree itself (we're down the pecking order of importance behind those that have 'planes and trains to catch!). Once we get them we'll post them here!
Shopping
There are five trading areas available to participants at the Jamboree:
* The Plaza
* The Desert Hub (this is the one closest to us!)
* The Mountain Hub
* The Ocean Hub
* The Tropical Hub
(There's also an Island Hub for adults only). Each one is different, and outlets start opening from around 07:00, and all are closed by 22:30 (not all outlets are open all the time).
Sainsbury's
There are Sainsbury's Supermarkets in the Plaza, Desert Hub (near us!), Tropical Hub, and the Island Hub. All of them sell sweets, soft drinks, crisps and snacks, biscuits, and basic First Aid stuff. Additionally, the Desert and Tropical Hub Sainsbury's sell sauces, spices, herbs, toiletries, female hygiene products, cleaning materials and "other bits and pieces".
The Island Hub (open to adults only) also sells newspapers, cigarettes, and over the counter medicines.
Food Outlets
There are a number of food outlets around the place. In the Plaza the Scout Food Houses offer a range of foods from around the world. The Desert and Tropical Hubs have some catering facilities, with more comprehensive facilities at the Mountain and Ocean Hubs.
Costs
Typical costs will be:
Ice Cream £1 - £2
Canned Drink 60p - £1
Chocolate Bar 50p
Burger £2.50 - £3
* The Plaza
* The Desert Hub (this is the one closest to us!)
* The Mountain Hub
* The Ocean Hub
* The Tropical Hub
(There's also an Island Hub for adults only). Each one is different, and outlets start opening from around 07:00, and all are closed by 22:30 (not all outlets are open all the time).
Sainsbury's
There are Sainsbury's Supermarkets in the Plaza, Desert Hub (near us!), Tropical Hub, and the Island Hub. All of them sell sweets, soft drinks, crisps and snacks, biscuits, and basic First Aid stuff. Additionally, the Desert and Tropical Hub Sainsbury's sell sauces, spices, herbs, toiletries, female hygiene products, cleaning materials and "other bits and pieces".
The Island Hub (open to adults only) also sells newspapers, cigarettes, and over the counter medicines.
Food Outlets
There are a number of food outlets around the place. In the Plaza the Scout Food Houses offer a range of foods from around the world. The Desert and Tropical Hubs have some catering facilities, with more comprehensive facilities at the Mountain and Ocean Hubs.
Costs
Typical costs will be:
Ice Cream £1 - £2
Canned Drink 60p - £1
Chocolate Bar 50p
Burger £2.50 - £3
Facilities
In addition to the Shopping Facilities there are a number of other facilities available:
Photographic
At the Facility Centres it will be possible to download digital photos to a CD and buy prints (we're assuming that there will be a charge to download to the CD, too!).
Internet Access
Internet Access from one of the 700 computers on site(*) is available at all of the Hubs. Credit needs to be purchased from one of the Facility Centres. The Internet Cafes are open from 06:30 to 22:30, except for the Island (adult) Hub, where it's open 24 x 7.
Telephones
Pay 'phones are available in all of the Internet Cafes. Prepaid cards will need to be bought from one of the Facility Centres.
Mobile 'Phone Top-ups
Top-up credit can be purchased from the Facility Centres.
Electricity
There will be power outlets in the Internet Cafes for charging mobile 'phones, cameras, etc. These take 3-pin plugs, and are chargeable.
Post
There is a Post Office in the Plaza, and items can also be posted in the Facility Centres. There will be special Scouting Centenary Stamps available.
Toilets
There are loos available in every Sub-camp and around the site. Be warned - this is an International Camp and some of the loos will be International loos!
Showers
Showers are available 24 hours a day.
Laundry
There will be a laundry service available from the Facility Centres.
Religious Services
There will be religious gatherings available for most religions.
Photographic
At the Facility Centres it will be possible to download digital photos to a CD and buy prints (we're assuming that there will be a charge to download to the CD, too!).
Internet Access
Internet Access from one of the 700 computers on site(*) is available at all of the Hubs. Credit needs to be purchased from one of the Facility Centres. The Internet Cafes are open from 06:30 to 22:30, except for the Island (adult) Hub, where it's open 24 x 7.
Telephones
Pay 'phones are available in all of the Internet Cafes. Prepaid cards will need to be bought from one of the Facility Centres.
Mobile 'Phone Top-ups
Top-up credit can be purchased from the Facility Centres.
Electricity
There will be power outlets in the Internet Cafes for charging mobile 'phones, cameras, etc. These take 3-pin plugs, and are chargeable.
Post
There is a Post Office in the Plaza, and items can also be posted in the Facility Centres. There will be special Scouting Centenary Stamps available.
Toilets
There are loos available in every Sub-camp and around the site. Be warned - this is an International Camp and some of the loos will be International loos!
Showers
Showers are available 24 hours a day.
Laundry
There will be a laundry service available from the Facility Centres.
Religious Services
There will be religious gatherings available for most religions.
Photos
Please tag any photos uploaded onto flickr "soljam" - this will enable people to search for them all!
Our Schedule
For those that haven't being paying attention, we've now got our programme of events:
Friday 27 July
International Contingents Arrival
Saturday 28 July
Sub Camp Activities
Opening Ceremony
Sunday 29 July
Splash!
Monday 30 July
TerraVille
Tuesday 31 July
Trash
Choice
Wednesday 01 August
Scouting Sunrise Day
Thursday 02 August
Gilwell Adventure
Friday 03 August
Choice
Elements
Saturday 04 August
AquaVille
Sunday 05 August
Starburst
Monday 06 August
GDV
Choice
Tuesday 07 August
Closing Ceremony
Wednesday 08 August
Return Home!
Friday 27 July
International Contingents Arrival
Saturday 28 July
Sub Camp Activities
Opening Ceremony
Sunday 29 July
Splash!
Monday 30 July
TerraVille
Tuesday 31 July
Trash
Choice
Wednesday 01 August
Scouting Sunrise Day
Thursday 02 August
Gilwell Adventure
Friday 03 August
Choice
Elements
Saturday 04 August
AquaVille
Sunday 05 August
Starburst
Monday 06 August
GDV
Choice
Tuesday 07 August
Closing Ceremony
Wednesday 08 August
Return Home!
Wadi Sub-camp
We're on the Wadi Sub-camp. As well as us, there are going to be contingents from:
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Canada
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Egypt
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hungary
- India
- Indonesia
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Malaysia
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- Nigeria
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Serbia & Montenegro
- Switzerland
- USA
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