“ONE world, one promise,” was the theme of the highly anticipated 21st World Scout Jamboree which was visited by members from the Ipswich and Felixstowe areas during its 10-day camp in Essex.

“ONE world, one promise,” was the theme of the highly anticipated 21st World Scout Jamboree which was visited by members from the Ipswich and Felixstowe areas during its 10-day camp in Essex.

The event which takes place every four years, was held in Hylands Park, Chelmsford and saw scout groups travel from more than 180 countries worldwide.

A total of 100 scouts and explorers were specially selected from groups throughout the Orwell District of Ipswich and Felixstowe for a day visit to the Jamboree on Saturday, August 4.

The adventure began with a 7.30am departure from the Hallowtree campsite in Ipswich.

The selected scouts had the opportunity to find out about other scouts faiths and cultures, share skills and participate in adrenalin fuelled adventurous activities.

Ian Butcher, the Assistant District Commissioner for Scouts, led the group to the Jamboree.

He said: “The realisation of the size of the event didn't hit us until we walked through the park gates. We were overwhelmed with what we saw.”

The Jamboree was on a massive scale, and had more than 40,000 scouts camping the entire two weeks of the event, with the hope of attracting around 50,000 day visitors.

The campsite was divided into 16 sub-campsites, each with its own special identity and gateway.

Each country provided its own colourful display and marquee, and there were several choices in stalls and shops available.

The group arrived back in Ipswich at 8pm having had a tiring but very exciting trip.

Mr Butcher also said: “We would like to thank Chris Imlac, James Groom and Richard Bell, who travelled to the last Jamboree held in Thailand in 2003, who funded our outing to this event. We had a fantastic time.”