Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centre, which is set alongside the reservoir, was our base for the duration. In the seven years we have been doing this residential, this is the largest group of children we have ever taken to Hawkhirst and it was a bit of a squeeze to fit everyone in. Most of the children were accommodated inside, but owing to the numbers a few hardy souls had earlier volunteered to stop in the tented village.

The children took part in a range of adventurous activities to improve their confidence, team work and communication skills. These included many of our old favourites (abseiling, crate stacking, bell boating, Jacob’s Ladder and archery) as well as some less familiar activities (kayaking and stand up paddle boarding).

In the evening the children took part in a lakeside walk, team games, outdoor adventure course and campfire (a special indoor version owing to the wet weather). They also had a chance to visit the gift shop.

Olivia said: “I really enjoyed the bell boating, because I’ve never done that before and it was a challenge for me.”

Jack said: “I was a bit worried about the climbing tower, but I managed to do it.”

We are very grateful to Mr Tate, Mrs Turnbull-Hall and Mr Skinner for coming along to support the visit.