Beavers and Leaders from the 12th, 18th & 26th Cambridge Beaver Colonies were left astounded after a "once-in-a-lifetime" trip to the 21st World Scout Jamboree, which this year was taking place 50 miles away in Chelmsford, UK.

The World Scout Jamboree, which brings together scouts from across the globe for 12 days of international scouting activities, is one of the biggest scouting celebrations to be taking place in 2007 as part of the centenary of the movement. 40,000 scouts from more than 160 countries have made their way to Chelmsford to be a part of it.

For all those unable to participate in the event, the Scout Association offered special Day visitors passes which gave people access to a vast area of the site. Day visitors benefitted from a great range of activities, including a show in the arena; opportunities to taste international cuisine; learn about international cultures, customs and global issues; shop; and participate in a number of challenges and games that different countries had set up all over the site.

It was clear at the very beginning of the day that the Jamboree was something special and was very well organised. Arriving at the Car Park (North Weald Airfield), the turn-around time for issuing tickets, boarding shuttles and setting off was very impressive considering the masses of people hoping to attend. Only when passing the site by road did the size of the event really sink in...an endless mass of white tents and national flags flying as far as the eye could see.

The entrance to the site gave a massive sense of occasion...a giant gateway with "Jamboree" banner across the top and world scout badge underneath. And just beyond the gateway, two rows of flying national flags acting as a wall and walkway, which opened out to reveal the mass of tents and activities beyond.

There was something for everyone! History, games, shops, entertainment, culture and a chance not only to learn about other countries but to speak to people from those countries. Everywhere you looked, people were smiling and enjoying themselves in the sunshine.

Wandering though the various bases, the Beavers had their names translated into Chinese and scribed on to fans which they took home as souvenirs. They also contributed a 'hand' to an Art Exhibition which will feature in the Tate Museum in London later in 2007, and made friendship bracelets. But not only that, they took part in numerous games, watched an hour-long show in the Arena, learnt basic first aid and got to see badges from across the globe, thanks to the International Badge Club.

Speaking after the Jamboree day visit, Beaver Scout Leader Emma Roberts commented;

"It was absolutely amazing! 100 out of 100. Couldn't fault the day what-so-ever and I'm really glad I went. I don't know how many other opportunities I'm going to have to do something like that again, so for me it probably was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Arriving back in Cambridge, the Beavers and Leaders who took part were awarded an official UK Centenary and Jamboree badge which they will be wearing on their uniforms. Also with their new-found understanding for international issues, meeting foreign people and having tried food from another country, the Beavers were also awarded their Friendship Challenge and Join-in-Centenary Badge.