Frost Camp

Friday 23 February 2024 saw the start of another outstanding Frost Camp, attended by the majority of 12th Caterham (with a small detail from Chaldon) under the veteran guidance of Neil, Gav, Martin and Maisie. The weekend started with a confused walk through the quagmire from the car park to Camp Number 7 – our refuge for the weekend. The first night we set up our things in our tents under the cloudy and cold sky to establish a camp to return to each day after the activities. Whilst some of us went to sleep that first night, others gathered in the chapel to summon demons. This year I was the ‘willing’ sacrifice. That night, the new Wonka film was broadcast in the outdoor cinema.

The next morning started with an early get up to collect wood prior to a hearty breakfast of bacon and sausage baps (the sausages were cooked by Harry who managed to burn everything, including the ketchup). This is known as the ‘Chargrilled Bap’ according to its chef. Fully fuelled we headed off to complete a range of activities, which started at 10 am. Some of us whizzed
down zip wires and hung from trees, others crawled through tunnels in the cave maze and tested their marksmanship in the shooting activities. More activities were added this year, such as a Gillie Suit stalk and Axe throwing. This was not the end of the day’s adventures, as after a filling meal, we headed back out to the communal campfire where we sung rousing campfire songs and told stories while the friendly staff marketed their products for sale – a hefty profit was made on the sweets! After the
campfire a silent disco was on the cards, thankfully the adults were not allowed to attend as we have seen them dance before!

While we were there, our previous District Commissioner Tim Evans turned up, along with our present District Commissioner Penny. Tim presented to Maisie the award of Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service during her role as
Youth Commissioner of Caterham District, and Penny presented Gavin Hill with his wood badge for completing his leader training after validating his outstanding modules after lockdown.

The final morning started the same way, banking up the fire and consuming our breakfast to warm us up and give us energy for the last two hours of activities. People chose where they wanted to go, with archery, virtual shotguns, survival skills, Jacob’s ladder and wobbly pole and crate stacking, as well as the infamous Nerf War to name but a few. After lunch it was time to break camp and ensure all socks were returned to their rightful owners.

All enjoyed their experience, and we only took 50% casualties to frostbite and Martin’s scrambled eggs.

Archie P