WSJ 2007 Contingent Leader's Log

Jamboree has began!

Jamboree got off to a spectacular start with a show, parade of flags, fireworks and a royal appearance from the Duke of Kent (President of the UK Association) and HRH Prince William.

After a really cold night and morning, the sun came out before the ceremony and changed what promised to be a bleak day into a warm sunny one.

From as early as 11:00am, the various Subcamps started arriving at the arena escorted by a knight on horseback accompanied by a "fair maiden". By 1:00pm we were all seated on the grass awaiting the start of the opening ceremony.

The ceremony started with a musical presentation featuring the traditional music and dance of the four regions which make up the UK Association - England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each section of the presentation was accompanied by Scouts from the region running through the aisles dress in traditional costumes and carrying huge flags and two hot air balloons.

This was followed by a procession of flags from the countries represented at the Jamboree. The Barbados Flag was carried by Lamar Francis, while Daniel Neblett raised the Barbados Flag at the Avenue of Flags at the front of the arena when our name was called. We realised that one of our members had defected to another country as he was seen carrying the flag of another country at the ceremony - don't worry Kamal, I won't call any names.

After a couple of speeches and a message from Her Majesty, it was "discovered" that the World Flag need to officially open the Jaamboree was "missing". It was quickly found and "delivered" by members of the Royal Air Force, four of whom braved strong winds to parachute in with it. It was then quickly raised and the Jamboree declared officially open.

After the Opening Ceremony the Troop returned to their subcamp while the Support Team familiarised ourselves with some more of the Jamboree site.

After checking on the Troop (who were either relaxing, bathing, trading badges, or preparing dinner) we returned to our area where we had dinner, relaxed a little and then turned in for the night.

Later.

Trevor.
Contingent Leader.
(2007-07-28)

PS. We have had a problem charging our phones and the laptop. The service that is in our area is periodic and when operating the line in very long (20+ minute wait and then 1hr. for charging). Hopefully we will find our Contingent Pavillion tomorrow where we should have an electrical outlet. The WiFi is not operational yet either so I have been unable to access the Internet with the laptop. I tried using the internet cafe but was unable to upload photos with their system. I will see what happens tomorrow.

TJ.