Scouts from across the UK are expected to come together in Staffordshire in April, as the Kibblestone International Scout Campsite holds its first Childhood Memories Weekend.
The gates of the 98-acre are being flung open between 24 and 26 April to allow former Scouts to relive their childhood memories, enjoy a range of supervised activities, sit around a traditional Scout camp fire and reunite with old friends.
It is a one off event as adults cannot normally just visit the camp to reminisce.
Estate Manager Steve Fern explained: “We often get people coming along and asking if they can wander around. They want to see their childhood haunts but sadly we have to say no as, when there are young people on site, child protection and safeguarding laws apply.
“Therefore, we decided to host Kibblestone’s first ever Childhood Memories Weekend. We’re expecting a great response as most people who have been a Scout member in Staffordshire have experienced a trip to Kibblestone. We’ve also hosted Scouts from around the world and anyone is welcome, although we are asking people to book in advance.
“People are welcome to come for a few hours, stay for a day or camp out. There’s limited indoor accommodation, but we’d advise people to book early for that.
“We will have trained instructors on site and visitors will be able to enjoy a range of activities, such as coracle building, archery, abseiling, bouldering, axe throwing, high ropes and orienteering.”
Thousands of young people have spent memorable weekends at Kibblestone since the Kibblestone Hall Estate was donated to the Scouting movement by Ronald Copeland in 1954.
The first scout camps in the area go back even further, to 1927, as Mr Copeland, who was chairman of fine china company Copeland Spode, was a keen Scout and President of the North Staffordshire Scouts Association.
Kibblestone hosts scout groups throughout the year and is also available for school visits. The vast site can be split into two self-contained sites and this also allows KIbblestone to host company team building events and parties. Former Scouts have held wedding and anniversary parties on site.
To reserve a space on the Childhood Memories Weekend, please email [email protected]. It is possible to book items in advance, including an activity package, catering package and a tour of the historic Mosty Lea watermill on the site.
ENDS
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