OVER 600 Scouts, Cubs and Explorers from across Chester came together last weekend for District Camp at Tatton Park, enjoying a range of outdoor activities over their three-day stay.

The three groups learned new skills and had fun mixing together, with Beavers and Squirrels - the youngest and newest section of the Scouting family - joining in on the fun on Saturday.

"We’ve had so many exciting things for the Scouts to try out," said George Birch, Chester District Youth Commissioner.

"Our climbing wall, drop slide and zip line are always really popular, and we’ve also had laser tag, axe throwing, archery, and rifle shooting to keep them busy. The science zone had plenty of experiments to try including rocket launching, building structures, and making ‘elephant toothpaste’.

"Traditional Scouting skills such as the safe use of knives, axes and saws were also on offer, and we cooked marshmallows, sweetcorn, and ‘dirty fries’ over an open fire. And on nearby Tatton Mere we’ve run bell boating, kayaking and paddleboarding."

Around the site, individual groups set up their own camps, cooked meals, and enjoyed outdoor games with their friends. The Chester Gang Show team also led the camp ‘wake-up shake-up’ dance and evening on-stage entertainment.

Former Lord Mayor of Chester, John Ebo visited the camp on Saturday, and present the Lord Mayor's Award to Ben Whittaker, Aaron Dimelow, Joseph Carlile and Riley Noonan from 1st Malpas for their teamwork during Cheshire Hike.

Jonah Eckley from 1st Upton received the Stan Hinson Trophy for showing great bravery in an emergency situation.

Idris, a Cub Scout at 1st Upton by Chester said: "I really enjoyed camp with my friends and didn’t want to leave. The best bit was the cavebus because it was tricky getting through the dark tight spaces."

Georgia, an Explorer Scout with Wolf ESU, and a Young Leader at 48th Chester, helped run the climbing wall.

She said: "District Camp was absolutely incredible! I love the atmosphere and the sense of community at these big events. It is so rewarding being part of Chester Scouts, especially being able to share the skills I have been taught back to others. It doesn’t feel like that long ago I was the one climbing up the wall!"

Deputy District Commissioner Megan Porter added: "It has been amazing to see how much fun the Scouts have had at camp and the skills and confidence they have developed. It really makes all the effort in putting the event together so worthwhile, and I’m so grateful to all of the other volunteer adult and young leaders and parents who have helped make it happen. I’m looking forward to the next one already!"