Report by Matthew Moore, Waddington Sentries.

Poacher 2004 was a chance for people to not only make new friends, but to do some very interesting activities. I asked a few Scouts, Guides and Explorers what their most favourite activity was, the five most popular were: Paracending, Horse riding, bungee trampalining and quad bikes.

Was it right to have an age limit on the quad bikes?

I personally witnessed the engine roar of the quad bikes three times on poacher and I can say it was better than anything else I did.

I interviewed a Scout about the age limitations on the Paracending, Gliding and Quad Bikes.

Q: What do you think about the age limits on the activities?
A: I think it’s silly because people come here to have fun, not to be limited by age.

Q: Do you think you would have enjoyed yourself more if you had been over 14?
A: Definitely. It makes me really angry to see people in my troop doing quad bikes and sub-aqua, and me realising I cannot do it.

Q: Do you think the decision to have the ge limitations is a good idea, with safety in mind?
A: No. I think everyone should have equal opportunities on Poacher. If one person is allowed to do it, then all of us should.

Apart from the on-site activities, there were offsite activities such as swimming, bowling, fishing, canoeing, rafting and ghost-walks (Night hikes). I interviewed a guide about the ghost walk.

Q: What did you have to do on the ghost-walk?
A: We had to walk through fields and look out for “ghosts”.

Q: Did you enjoy yourself?
A: Apart from the blisters on my feet, yes I did. It gave me a challenge, and other people as well.

Q: Did it seem well organised?
A: I didn’t really notice, however, one person (Hackney!!!) Did get us lost in a field somewhere near Welton.

We can all agree that poacher 2004 was a fun filled event full of activities for young, old, and those who are looking for a challenge.

I look forward to seeing you hopefully in 2008!