On a Friday evening at the end of February, two minibuses snaked their way out of Bath through the rush hour traffic heading for the South Coast. On board were 18 Cubs and 4 Leaders, eager to enjoy a weekend in Bournemouth, and a visit to Brownsea Island, the site of Baden Powell’s original Scout Camp in 1907.

The Cubs spent the weekend at Butchers Coppice Scout Campsite in Bournemouth, where they were able to enjoy the adventure playground and spent an evening on the Bouldering wall. But the highlight of the camp was on Saturday morning as bright and early the Cubs and their Leaders boarded a ferry in Sandbanks, destined for Brownsea Island.

Once on the Island, the Cubs were able to explore the island, now a nature reserve, before gathering at the Scout Stone, a memorial to Baden Powell’s original camp. There, four Cubs got the opportunity to be invested into the group (by making their Scout Promise). This is an important ceremony to any Cub, but was made all the more special by the significance of the location.

The Cubs then had time to play a few Wide games, running around the island and letting off some steam, and of course the obligatory trip to the gift shop, before boarding the ferry back to Poole.

The Cub’s Leader, Dan Spencer, said “All 18 Cubs really enjoyed the opportunity to visit Brownsea. The island is a very special place to all Scouts, and I’m sure many of them will remember this visit for years to come. We are now planning our next camping trips ready for the Summer.”

The Cub Pack meets in Weston High Street, and is entirely led and run by volunteers. To get involved please click here.