Behind the scenes with the Jamboree Chief...
Essex International Jamboree 2008

The last few days have been an amazing end to an astonishing week.

Friday was a very emotional time, as new friends began the distressing task of saying goodbye and checking that names and numbers had been exchanged in order to keep in touch!

Our closing ceremony used a carnival theme to lead in to a party with House Band, Reef Knot, taking the front of stage once more to get the party really going! They were followed by reminders of why we were at the Jamboree, to share fun and friendship together, before the Jamboree flag was lowered and the fireworks began.

During the Closing ceremony I was presented with a blanket which had been organised by the international team. Thank you to the team and all those units who contributed a badge. It is not only a beautifully finished blanket, but a beautiful sentiment and nearly saw me shedding a tear on the stage, instead of off to one side. The presentation was made more personal as two of our groups Young Leaders were asked to present me with the blanket.

So, an emotional but incredible satisfying end to a fantastic week.

During Saturday, groups left, at an surprisingly fast pace. This meant that by 2.30 pm the site was nearly cleared of our participants, leaving our volunteer staff team to get stuck in to the business of ripping out all the infrastructure and returning the fields to just that - fields!

The "take down", as it is known, should be completed by this Wednesday, thanks to all the staff who take extra leave from their day jobs in order to help make Essex International Jamboree what it is - AMAZING!

I personally left site at about 1.30 today, with two events tents packed in to the car and a lot of fantastic memories.

During this week we have had extreme heat and wind currents to contend with, as well as the odd downpour (luckily overnight), but through all of it our volunteers, participants leaders and young people have held on tight to the reasons for being in "the field" in the first place and have made the best of whatever the elements and life can throw at us.

So, for my final Jamboree week blog (there will be some take down ones), a few parting messages:

TO THE PARTICIPANTS - I hope you all had an amazing time and got to do all the things you have only thought of before this week. Keep in touch with those new friends, as you never know when they may be there for you as you go forward from Essex 2008.
TO THE LEADERS - thank you for giving of your time, and patience, to ensure that the young people have the opportunity to attend our event. If adults such as yourself were not giving of their time, not only on a weekly basis, but also of their annual and family leave time, then events such as Essex 2008 would be very lonely places indeed!
TO THE STAFF - you are the best! Leaders give of their time to ensure the young poeple can come to Essex International Jamborees, but without the staff there is no Essex International Jamboree. During the build, event and take down week, in the Region of 2,000 volunteers have come together to make what needs to happen, happen! We have laughed, and cried a little, together and supported eachother, as well as the participants, through it all. Well done to each and everyone of you! You have all made me proud to call myself the Jamboree Chief for the Essex International Jamboree 2008.

Thank you.

Clare

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What a day!


Apologies first. My daily blog slipped yesterday, due to the fantastic hive of activitiy that accompanies our Open Day.

Just over 4,000 people - Brownies, Cubs, families and other members of both organisations - joined the Jamboree for a fantastic peak at the biggest ever Essex International Jamboree. During the day, their wristbands provided them with access to activities and the Market Square venues, supplying food and drink to participants and visitors alike.

To round off the day our visitors were treated to a video presentation of what has been happening on site so far this week, as well as a routine performed by the Ceremonies Cast and the Jamboree Song, performed by Reef Knot. They were also informed of the tradition of "pegging"!

Allegedly, "pegging" the Jamboree Chief carries between 50 and 100 points, depending on where I am "pegged". However, I am worth a massive 150 points if "pegged" while on the stage. I believe the Ents team (who facilitate the evening enbtertainment for participants and staff) may have beaten all records so far, with a total of 15 extra pegs appearing on sleeves, edges of clothing and my hair!!! I now look seriously "pegged" - although there is still some space left on my scarf, so get "pegging" before time runs out and we are all on our way home!!!

Today, we have been visited by the teams organising both WINGS (Windsor Jamboree) in 2009 and NORJAM 2010. The teams were able to talk to the relevant Essex opposite numbers and try and learn from our experiences. I think it is safe to say they were all impressed. In fact the Media rep from Norfolk was so impressed with our website he is even trying to borrow our website administrator!

I must confess with all the heat and activity I have been starting to flag just a little this afternoon, so thanks to the Media Team for my Crunchie supply - just the pick up I needed. Plus, they always make me chuckle which is what we all need sometimes - even if they do get a little cheeky (you know who you are).

My mission I would like to achieve for today is to try and work out how to import some photo's, in to all this weeks blog entries. Hopefully, this will help illustrate the scale of this amazing event.

I may have to requisition one of the team for a while though as this looks very technical.

Uuuummmmmm, who will it be ............

See you all later,

Clare

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This morning sees another bright and sunny day over the Essex Jamboree 2008. Luckily, however, the constant extreme heat was broken overnight by a short thunder storm. The heavy rain and impromptu lighting show have really helped clear the air and everyone seems to be having even more fun, if that is at all possible!

Today we are lucky enough to be joined by Liz Burnley, the Chief Guide for Girlguiding UK. Liz has already presented some awards for us, including one Queens Guide, some Chief Guide Challenge Awards and several Baden-Powell Awards. The Guides, Rangers and young Guiders involved were all smiles while they were presented in front of friends and family. Liz has been joined by Dr. Rosie Spencer, the Region Commissioner for Girlguiding Anglia. Both Liz and Rosie will have a tour of the site with our Youth Tour team, followed by lunch and then a tour of our Market Square and Activities areas.

We are also being joined by the Scouts Chief Commissioner of South England, Wayne Bulpitt, as well as the Chief Scout of Norway. It is all go for the Guest Hospitality Team. On top of those already mentioned, the team have provided tours for Councillors, Mayors, Commissioners of both organisations, Ambassadors and Supporters of Guiding and Scouting. The Guest comments on our "Guest Wall" have been very positive and a testament to how well the Guest team have worked, in both planning the tours and lunches, as well as actual delivery on the day. Well done all!

Well, must dash for now, as I am off to have lunch with Guest Hospitality Team.

The daily tos and fros of the Jamboree Chief!!!

Clare

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I'm back and actually finding the daily blog real fun. Not only do I get to touch base with the Marketing and Communication Team, but it gives me a genuine excuse to be nosey and visit different parts of the site as much as possible.

So, did I achieve yesterdays missions? What else did I do?

Early evening I was invited to take part in the Darren and Marie radio show. Darren and Marie asked questions about organising the Jamboree, ranging from how much is the whole budget (around 1 million pounds), to how and when was I appraoched to fulfill my role and how long it has all taken to get this far. I must confess to being nervous (very actually) but Darren and Marie were both lovely and made me feel at ease from the start.

I was also able to attend the International Leaders Reception in the Guest Hospitality marquee. This event, organised by our dedicated and enthusiastic International Team, led by Darren Bretton, gave our international guests a chance to meet a greet with each other, over a traditional cream tea. Watching them all mingling round the tent and talking, in varying degrees of English (some better than mine), was a touching moment. It showed that individuals of different faiths and cultures can come together in peace and be part of a true brother and sisterhood. Shame the whole world cannot be Scouts and Guides!!!

Later in the evening I managed to make a quick visit to some of our retail outlets, to see just how much stock our participants have been purchasing. Toothbrushes have sold out completely and sun cream is hugely popular - no surprise with all the sun we have been blessed with! We are having to regularyl re-stock with drinks and the ice cream van always seems to have a queue. So, all is well for our hard working Retail outlets.

This morning we started with lots of birthday wishes for one of our visiting Canadian Rangers. This morning, miles from home, Emily turned 18. As a special touch, she received her new pass wrapped, with handwritten message on a balloon, attached by ribbon. The Registrations Team have made what can be a homesick moment in to one where the young people feel really special and cared for among so many strange faces. Thanks team!

This afternoon I was able to walk down to the It's a Knockout team and watch the spectacle that only they can create. The Knockout team came out to the subcamp collected their colour coded teams and led them back to face their high energy bases. Music was blarring and the compare was moving the teams around the Knockout arena with dances and energetic team members having a really good time. This event is always a crowd pleaser and never fails to impress.

This evening I am hoping to complete a Subcamp Safari (collecting the subcamp stamps on my Safari postcard), or at least make a start. So look out for me while I am out and about, as I currently have only 4 pegs and I am sure more points could be earned yet!

A lot of the teams are now preparing for the Jamboree Open Day, to be held this Wednesday. For an entry fee of only £5.00 you are able to experience the fun, excitement and friendship of a truly international experience. So, come and see what happens at a Jamboree - you may be bitten by the bug and end up wanting to join us for future events!

That's all for today, as I have to start my Safari shortly, plus grab a quick drink and locate my postcard!!!

Type again soon,

Clare

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Sunday is our first full day on site with all our staff and participants and it is HOT! VERY HOT!

Constant reminders for hats, sun cream and water are being pipped out on Jungle Radio and the PA system, as well as via staff and leaders.

The up side is all activities are up and running and the Media Centre, where I am currently sitting, is buzzing with activity. The internet cafe is up and supplying access to the internet and emails.

I have already heard "5, 4, 3, 2, 1 ......" blarring out over the activities field, as the It's a Knockout Team swing in to action with their high energy physical, mental and fun packed activities - with mandatory pop classics and dance routines!!!! It is the only way to learn the macaraina, trust me!!

So, what are my missions for today:

1. Visit International plaza - I have been asked to pop in and write a few words in the newsletter, plus place an entry on the peace wall
2. Visit the Retail area, as I have not had a chance to pop in and say hi yet
3. Radio Station interview with Paul (Deputy Chief) about the Jamboree Build

Today, my husband's Scout Group (4h Braintree - Orangutan Subcamp) are off visiting Colchester Zoo, with our Canadian Ranger Guide guests. I know they will have an excellent time and have challenged them to get some good shots of our group mascot around the zoo, plus feeding the elephants!! They have also taken the subcamp camera to help the subcamp media team. The photo's did start with one of young leaders drapped in birthday banners and balloons - HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY JOSIE!

Are there any problems - I hear you cry? A few. There always is when you put 10,000 people in a green field for a week, but nothing that we cannot work out together and that is exactley what we are all doing!

I would also like to congratulate Neil from Harlow Explorers on being the first to peg the Jamboree Chief and not be a member of her own unit!!!

Anyway, best go so that our trained Media Geek can get back to his PC (which he lent to me about an hour ago - it is very hot and I am easily distracted, plus the fan on his desk is lovely and cooling)!

See you all soon!

Clare x

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What an amazing day this has been!

Today saw the bulk of our participants and staff arrive. Around 7000 people arrived to join in the biggest and best UK based Jamboree - probably!

The heat meant that staff marshalling vehicles had to be regularly supplied with water, squash, tea, wet towels and food, so that they did not keel over completely. Most vehicles were clear of site by our expected time of 6pm, so that the young people on site could start to explore and make new friends, from far and wide. This was down to all the planning work that Security and our Safety Team put in - checking access routes, changing traffic flows and clear communications with other teams. Both these teams were heavily supported by other staff volunteers who gave up today to help out. Thanks to you all. I have been on the security team for the last 3 Jamborees and know exactley how hot and tiring it can be. Thanks to for everyones patience while going round the one way system. This was the safest way to get everyone in the right place and quickly as possible.

The only slight "moment" was when a member of the Site Services team hurt himself . Get better soon Daniel and we hope to have you back on site soon if we can

Late this afternoon I met with some colleagues on the Market Square, and was served a fantastic latte by the lovely Gareth and the Jungle Cafe team. It was a chance to sit, discuss any plans we needed to implement for the evening and watch the Jamboree unfold as people of all ages started to fill the Market Square in preparation for the evenings fun!

After nearly three years of planning today it all really begins. 10,000 people from all over the world will live in their own little town. We will eat together, have fun, challenge ourselves with new activities, learn about eachothers cultures and countries, as well as looking to make lasting friendships and enjoy the experience that can only be gained by actually being here.

Tonight was our Open Ceremony and Steph, Gary and their WHOLE TEAM did a fantastic job. The young people were lively and entertaining and our house band, Reef Knot sound superb! Well done guys, you did an excellent job and did everyone proud !

Well, what more can I say! The last 3 years have been an amazing journey to this very point. I am typing while 1,000s of young people and their leaders are talking, singing, dancing and "oggy-ing" back to their subcamps, where I am sure the Leaders will not get much sleep - "it is the first night of camp" after all!

We have many more amazing nights and days of fun to come and I am looking forward to every single second.

Night, night all - I am off to find any of my Guides (1st Coggeshall) or Scouts (4th Braintree) and to try and come down after the adrenaline rush of tonight!

Tomorrow awaits

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Well, here we are! Well, about 3,000 of us are here so far. This includes the staff that have been on build all week (and are exhausted, but well tanned I notice), the subcamp teams are beginning to plot out unit layouts on site, plus some advance parties, mainly international groups whose flights arrived over the last 48 hours.

As a result the atmosphere is really starting to build (along with the temperature). Remember, hats, sun cream and t-shirts are a must, along with water bottles as we are camping on the Essex Riviera it would appear !

This week has been truly amazing to watch. Each day more marquees have been erected, the stage has been set up, the big screen has arrived, plumbing has been ongoing (with every block now fully plumbed, cleaned and ready to go), the electricians have been connecting power to toilets, lights, computers and the comms team have been putting in the wireless connections (all mod-cons in this field I'll have you know).

The Media CENTRE (they know what I mean) has been gearing up and we have already had slots on Look East and Anglia News are coming on site tomorrow to do a piece. Luckily, it will not be me on camera. Probably one of our young representatives.

Our volunteers have done really well, even with the heat.

I would like to dedicate this blog to Julian Cochran (Jules) without whom none of these blogs would be possible as I am a bit of a computer ingnaramous - as he found out for himself this evening! Many apologies and thank you for getting me logged on - it was very much appreciated (he was very patient)!

Type to you all soon, as I have been set a daily challenge of completing my blog EVERYDAY, with pictures to attach hopefully!

Signing off for now - as dinner is calling me - hooray! Then off to rehersals for the Opening Ceremony tomorrow night. I have 5 lines and my deputy, Paul, and I do a double act (talk about tweedle-dum and tweedle-dee, or is it dumb and dumber!!!)

Bye,

Clare x

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It is 4.07 am. Wednesday of build week.

I am up and typing because I suddenly remembered something and woke up at 2.45 am. I could not get back to sleep as I was worried about forgetting it again, so I came downstairs and bashed off a quick email to the Staff team on site.

Basically, I was suppose to phone one of the team, Graham, last Wednesday. I got caught up with a CRB enquiry and completely forgot. I am hoping I will be forgiven at some point, but probably not for a while, because it was an important phone call - oh, pants !

While I am here, I will do a brief update on the site, before hopefully returning for another couple of hours sleep (although not too hopeful on that last point)!

While on site Monday, I was amazed at how much had already been completed. Our volunteers are working really well together and we have so many pairs of hands, that some are even managing to get some downtime. Hopefully, all will get a few hours off during this week, otherwise everyone will be shattered before we get to the main event!

The subcamp offices were in place, as were the basic gateway structures, that the subcamp teams will be able to build upon. More toilet blocks were in place and water pipes were starting to be connected to the taps we would be using around the site from this weekend. Staff Reception has moved to its permanent home and the weather was even playing its part and staying dry for us.

All in all the Jamboree build seems to be doing really well and should all be completed on time, with any luck.

Anyway, sorry for such a short post, but I think it may be time to try and get some more shut eye.

Night, night

Clare x

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It is a shame we don't have sound in some ways - I could have put on a clip of James Earl Jones (Darth Vadar) in the Blog Entry Title! It is getting that serious now!!

Monday 14th July I received a text from Graham, our Head of Safety. Graham lives local to our Jamboree site, and was letting me know that the first marquees had begun to arrive at 7.30 that morning. By the evening, on his way home from work, he was able to take the snap shots you have already seen on the website this week, of some large marquees and a few toilet blocks. During last week those marquees and toilet blocks have multiplied, to help our volunteers get a head start on the build.

However, this weekend has seen our amazing Site Services Core Team, supported by dozens upon dozens of build week volunteers, really step a gear.

Saturday morning I stood on a virtually empty subcamp field. Just a few metal stakes were all that could be seen, of what will be thousands of peoples homes during next week. These stakes and a few scattered toilet blocks are the start of an amazing journey for our build team.

During Saturday the teams really started to pull together in order to raise event tents, plumb in the first blocks of many toilets (thank goodness) and start to layout some of the subcamp areas. We also have a team of scaffolders on site, erecting the Security Teams lookout tower - which is huge!!!!

Before leaving I also got a chance to hear a familiar Jamboree noise - the first sludge gulper was fired up to empty the site service toilets - music to all our ears!

On my return Sunday afternoon, I was able to see the work started by a group of Baden-Powell Challenge Guides. They had started to layout what will become the international arena. Markings were down and a good start had been made on the fiesta tents that would form the body of this years international activities and gatherings. The subcamp fields had also started to take shape, with toilet blocks laid out, event tents erected (for subcamp offices) and gateways beginning to take shape.

More staff volunteers had also arrived and the staff subcamp field was beginning to fill with all different size tents, from the cute to the huge!

During the next few days I will be travelling backwards and forwards to sight, checking that all are happy and well and seeing if I can help in anyway, even if it is just a sympathetic ear for someone who is starting to get tired. I will also try to remember to take some photos as the team progress, so you can see the site take shape before your very eyes.

So stay tuned, as we try to keep pace with the Essex International Jamboree 2008 BUILD TEAM!!!

See you all REALLY soon now.

Clare

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Time is now beginning to fly at a rate of knots! Where has all the time gone?

Since my last blog I have been fortunate enough to join in with lots of different team meetings. I have recently attended a Marketing and Communication Team Day. They got off to a fantastic start - with lots of laughter! The classic icebreaker of sitting on each others laps, in a circle, was engaged. I apologise to their pour Head of Department, Justin - he was lumbered with me on his knees! I can report, however, that they are a very trustworthy bunch as they managed to pull of the "sitting circle" twice in a row, with no falls or submissions! They have already done some splendid work, with marketing the event (hence why you are reading this blog) and organising the badges, subcamp scarves, subcamp gateways, leading on themeing for the whole event, development of an online radio (well done Martin and team), etc, etc. They have also advertised for Youth Media Team members, in the recent Countdown 2 newsletter. So, if there are any Explorer Scouts, Ranger Guides, Young Leaders or Network, please contact the team, who are awaiting your call. You may get the chance to participate in radio broadcasts, or write for the daily newspaper, or even work with some TV aspects, including the souvenir DVD team - you never know unless you put yourself forward!

The day after the Marketing meeting I got to have dinner with some very dear friends - the Birds! Nikki is our Registrar and Joe the Head of Security. I have know them for years and love being with them and their daughters, Lucy and Emily. However, we did have to work for our dinner (which was delicious and has not killed us yet Joe) - helping Nikki to bag up the Jamboree badges to be sent out to the participant groups! We also tried to recruit a new member to the team Bosley, their Tibetan terrier. I think he has his eye on being the registrar next time!!!!

I have also been lucky enough to have some time to visit an International Department management meeting. As we get closer there work is really hotting up, with finalising plans for the arrivals of our international visitors, from over 30 countries. They have been doing a stirling job, supported by welfare, in organising equipment, but still require some tentage. If you know of anyone with any spare tentage then please contact the international team with details of size and sleeping capacity. Some of the groups attending come from areas with very little support, so anything we can do for them is always greatly appreciated.

This weekend sees the start of the countdown proper for many of the Jamboree staff teams. The Site Services team, responsible for all our infrastructure (water, toilets, waste, marquees, electric, etc) will have their final work weekend before they stay on site full time, from 18th July. They will be trying to get those last minute jobs done, that will make their lives easier in the "build" week of the Jamboree. During the build week they will be supported by literally hundreds of more volunteers, helping either for the whole week or for just a few days. Some of these volunteers will not even be able to aprticipate in the event itself, but have still made time to support us with build and the take down period, when the on site team are really shattered after a week of cleaning up after us all. So, special thanks to all those who have volunteered to help with both build and take down. I know we are taking time from work and our families, in many cases, in order to make the participants aty more comfortable.

As we enter the final two weeks I am probably going to get busier and busier (as the 75 emails that came down in one day - yesterday - seem to suggest). I will do my best to keep the blog going, but apologies if they are shorter and not as many as we would like. During the build week itself, I will be visiting site daily and trying to help (hopefully, not hinder too much) the on site team. I will also TRY (very hard) to give daily updates where possible. I will also try to blog througout the week of the Jamboree itself, so that those who are watching from outside the Jamboree can still get a flavour of the fun packed and exciting atmosphere.

Well, better dash, have a scanning thing to do, for the front of the participant and staff handbooks, and the web team will tell you I am not very technically minded, so this should be interesting!!

See you all soon, take care,

Clare x

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Hi everyone

Time does always fly when you are surrounded by people equally determined to make such an event as breathe taking as possible for those attending. During the past 3 years I have been fortunate to meet many new faces, joining the Jamboree team either for the first time, or coming back to the Jamboree after a break.

The one thing we all have in common is our desire for every young person attending to have a truly magical experience. A chance for them to make new friends, some from abroad, and an opportunity to take those new friends with them on new adventures, trying new activities and experiencing different cultures in a safe and stimulating environment. Not to mention having FUN!

To facilitate this process, we need volunteer staff – lots of them!

Out staff team have been working closely with Heads of Departments to build a large volunteer staff team. Roles are many and varied. We need people who can assist with manning activity bases, supporting the site services team, educating young people in the Global Development Village and cooking for participants, staff and visitors in the fast food and catering outlets. Plus many, many more. You could be a member of staff based on site or travelling daily, full time or part time, or camping with your group, as a Staff Support Leader. The website has loads of information for those interested and able to help in some way.

I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have already volunteered (and completed their paperwork). Every volunteer is valued and welcomed, but if we know of any others “hiding their lights under bushels”, then speak up. Some Leaders bringing groups have already volunteered to assist with staff and this will definitely help relieve some pressure on full time staff, as well as giving the Leaders a chance to experience other aspects of the Jamboree.

The more volunteers we have the more each volunteer can also experience the Jamboree and get a little fun along the way!

Apologies for the bit of selling, but as volunteers I am sure we can all appreciate the need to have a break at some point during the week and this will only be possible, for some teams, if we manage to recruit more staff.

So, take care and if you think of anyone who might be interested, please pass them to the website and our Staff Department.

Thanks.

Clare

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Hello again

Well, time is flying by and the Jamboree is getting closer and closer. As we enter the final stretch for planning all our departments are having the last frenzy of meetings in order to dot the i's and cross the t's.

Since my last update I have managed to meet a few more members of the various departments, as well as attend a few more Team Building meetings, for Welfare and Security, and have a couple more planned in for June.
In April the Heads of Departments, along with key Team Leaders attending a joint meeting to update each other and have discussions around areas of common interest. This was held at 1^st Chelmsford Scout Hut, to whom I must say thanks for the accommodation. I also have to thank my husband, Martin, as he cooked our BBQ for everyone's lunch, as well as Carole (the Jamboree Secretary) and Nikki (Registrar) for pulling together all the juice, food, snacks, etc.


As part of the day one of the Marketing Team, Phil, raised a Subcamp Gateway for us all to see. It was very impressive and will look extra amazing when the Subcamp teams get to add their own personal touches just prior to start of the Jamboree itself. The Entertainment team also played some original music, written specifically for the Jamboree ceremonies. While the International team showed us a world map with details of where we currently have both participants and staff joining us from.
Shortly after our Jamboree TEAM meeting, I was lucky enough to be able to spend some time watching some young people audition for the Ceremonies team. The energy used put me to shame – I got tired just watching! The young people were ask to take part in a large dance routine, which they performed together and in smaller groups, as well as perform solo vocal performances for those budding singers among them. From the short time I spent with both groups we are all in for a treat. I am also planning to attend some of the rehersal time in June, so I look forward to seeing how everyone is doing then.


During the Welfare team build, held at Thriftwood in Brentwood, I was able to join in with team building games and learnt some interesting facts about some of our staff, ranging from who has broken a bone (which I also confessed to for those of you at WINTAC in 2000) to who has been lucky enough to visit Asia. The Deputy Head of Welfare, Josie, also gave a presentation on where the Welfare team were in terms of planning and where they fit in the overall Jamboree big picture.

The Security meeting was in Thorrington, Colchester, on the same day as the Welfare team, so I clocked up quite a few Jamboree miles that day! As someone who has worked on Security since 1996, it was nice to see some familiar faces, as well as meet some new ones. I was able to circulate during the separate team meetings and listen in on discussions around the medical centre, day shift patterns and night shift response systems.

On top of the weekend events, I have also been able to meet with the Subcamp Leaders. They are the teams who will be working closest with the participants. They have started to issue newsletters, of a very impressive quality, and put together a Join in the Jamboree pack, which provides activities for all sections within Guiding and Scouting to take part in around the Jamboree theme, The World's Endangered Animals.

Apart from all of the above, I have also managed to squeeze in some time for my brother's wedding, in Edinburgh, with glorious sunshine. Plus, a long weekend Scout Heap Challenge camp. As this was last weekend, at Skreens Park, we did get a bit wet, but a good time was had by all involved.

However, I would like to say a huge thank you to my Guides, 1^st Coggeshall and their Leaders and parent helpers, who have been very supportive. I have to admit I have missed the last 4 meetings, mainly due to work, but also due to the amount of paperwork, etc I am trying to keep on top of for the Jamboree. Thanks to you all and I hope to see you on Tuesday (fingers crossed)!!!

Well, that's me done for now. I am going to have a slower weekend in preparartion for the meetings and team events I have booked for June and July, not to mention the little matter of the Jamboree itself ……..

Take care and see you all soon,

Clare

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It has been a while since my first post, so apologies!

Well, you are probably wondering why it has taken so long and what have I been up to?

I have taken part in meetings .... lots of meetings! A Head of Department meeting, Jamboree Executives, Welfare department, planning for the Open Day and a meeting with Colchester Zoo, not to mention other little meetings around specific parts of the Jamboree.

On Friday 4th April, I met with the Head of Marketing and Education at Colchester Zoo. They are certainly up for helping us develop our theme of Endangered Animals from Around the World. The education team are looking to develop activities for those who visit the Zoo during the week, as their day out. They are also planning to have one of their conservation project workers visit the Jamboree site itself during the week, including extra activities for the Open Day. They were very impressed with all the work done so far and the professional look of our website and advertising materials. It was lovely to here them praising so many of our volunteers for all their hard work - well done teams!

I also had the pleasure, on Saturday 5th April, to visit the Entertainment Departments team building weekend. If this short visit is anything to go by, then you are all in for a treat when you arrive. The Essex Jamboree's very own rock band are sounding amazing (especially as I can't even carry a tune in the shower) and the Soft Rock Cafe were practising their cocktail skills. Some very strange looking mixtures were taking shape, but tasted beautiful. The team were also preparing some Subcamp animal based boards - but you will see what those are for when you arrive! It was also lovely to see that many of the team came from outside the County. Taking part in the weekend were not only staff based within Essex, but also from Yorkshire and Scotland, as well as others. There were also loads of Explorer members, which shows how committed many Young People are to making the Essex Jamboree 2008 truly amazing for others. Thank you to you all for making me feel so welcome and my only regret is that I could not stay longer. Here's a few shots of them in practice...

This Saturday (12th April) is a chance for the Heads of Departments and their main team leaders to meet together, in Chelmsford. We have approximately 120 people attending with a chance to discuss and plan even more aspects of the event, with a wider input from those involved. So, another meeting!!!!! However, it is always nice to get together and discuss topics with people face to face, so I am looking forward to it really!

Apart from meetings I have received 324 emails and personally replied to 190. Quite quiet really! I think half term and Easter have had an impact. Must be the calm before the storm! Saying that, if you also add in all the corrspondance for the Jamboree and the two units I work with (1st Coggeshall Guides and 4th Braintree Scouts) I am still perfectly busy - so no getting ideas and suddenly sending loads through.

I am going to sign off now. The Gadget Show is about to test some tents with regards to waterproofing and mud slinging, which cannot be missed - we may discover a tent that can withstand Winter Camp at Gilwell, you never know your luck!

I will try to blog again soon.

Take care,

Clare

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Check back regularly as Clare Darch lets you into what it’s like being the Essex International Jamboree Chief..

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Page updated by Julian 14/8/2007