Excitement was building as we headed for
Butlins in Minehead, and the prospect of a
shower loomed ever closer. Fun slides and
long showers left us very satisfied as we pulled
into McDonald's car park. We were amazed to
find it was a first for some, and as we devoured
our Big Macs and chips we didn't think our
lives could get any better! How wrong we
were; with darkness came Night Fright. The
wood was being patrolled by NCOs, and our
aim was to get cards into boxes without being
caught. Though a variety of tactics were used,
very few succeeded, but all were left with a
very scary feeling. When we arrived back at
camp, hot chocolate was on offer and we were
told we would get a lie-in in the morning!
After a long sleep we were all recharged and
ready to go. Sun shining down, we were given
a list of objects and one hour to find them all.
Chindits hared off in every direction: insects,
sheep wool and flowers were collected and
returned for points. After lunch it was Bomb
Defusal, giving the athletes among us time to
shine. Bottles (bombs) were placed all over
the hills, each with caps worth a certain
amount of points. Hatty Harrison shone in
this, collecting two of the four tops worth 40
points.
The next day, the final scheme began by
ambushing staff in a vehicle, which led to the
start of a new Chindit Camp game. NCOs
patrolled a long pathway; their job was to
catch Chindits who were patrolling the path
trying to find 'pirates', and take their 'gems'.
This was a great final exercise and a lot of fun.
As we headed back to camp the prospect of
going home lingered, and though we would be
glad to see family, it would be sad to see the
week end.
After a quick swim in the river, we all piled into
the big mess tent for a barbecue. Mr Shaw's
random quiz left everyone excited, and once
burgers had been eaten it was on to the real
fun. A sketch from each section showed
everyone's views of the great week we had
had. The NCO sketch left everyone in
hysterics, and Mr Cole's awards' ceremony
revealed that Green section took the victory this
time. Sweets all round and some great songs
from the musically talented, including Father
Mark, left the camp ending on a very high
note.
Thank you so much Mr Cole, without you it
never would have happened, and all your
fantastic tasks left us begging for more.
Mrs Cole, you looked after us so well and the
meals were fantastic thanks to you. Thank you
Miss Nutt, Father Mark, Mr Shaw, Matt Cole
and Chris Pearson, for looking out for us and
keeping us under check. Finally thanks to all
the NCOs, you made it lots of fun and full of
laughter. It was the best camp we could have
wished for and I can't wait to come back as an
NCO soon.
Aluredian
27