Assistant Beaver Leader Simon Gates has done a good turn by coming to the aid of a Cromwell Scout Group in need of help with a Cub Sleepover in London. The 1st Fenstanton and Hilton Cubs got into a spot of bother when two of their leaders had to pull out of the event due to unforseen circumstances a week before it was due to take place.

With a shortage of adults to support the sleepover, it was on the brink of cancellation unless additional leaders could step forward to cover the shortage at short notice...so the Group used their contacts within the county and Simon willingly stepped forward.

26 Cubs, 6 adults and 2 Young Leaders made the trip down to London, which included visits to the Clink Museum, Tower Bridge Exhibition and a photo trail along the River Thames between Westminster Palace and the Tower of London. The trip also included a flight on the London Eye, where 5 of the Cubs were invested into the Pack.

HMS Belfast provided to accommodation, breakfast, a talk and tour of the ship, and temporary storage for belongings whilst the Cubs were touring London. Getting around involved a lot of walking and the occasional use of the London Underground for long distances.

Although no one got lost during throughout the trip, the journey back took a sour turn when the train broke down at Hatfield, which left everyone temporarily stranded. To compound matters, the two connecting trains were jam-packed, which meant the leaders had to work overtime to ensure each and every Cub was onboard or getting off trains when required. Despite this, everyone made it back safely, albeit an hour late.

On his return to Cambridge, Simon commented;

"The trip was amazing and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The Cubs and the fellow adults made brilliant company...there were so many different characters to meet and work with! It was a long 24hrs, but the experience has been a memorable one, with non-stop activity and fun from start to finish."

Asked whether he would do it all again, Simon replied;

"If asked or offered, most definitely!