EXPLORER Scouts from Haslemere joined 30,000 scouts from nearly every corner of the world and took part in a once-in-a-life time opportunity of fun, challenge and adventure at the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Japan.

After years of planning, preparation and anticipation, scouts from over 200 countries and territories were camped together in a tented-city near Kirara-hama, Japan, following a spectacular opening ceremony that started the global event.

A scouting spokesman said: “From the main stage, a sea of young people making new friends and celebrating could be seen. A rainbow of flags from the UK to Brazil, USA to Pakistan, and Indonesia to Kenya was being waved proudly in peace and harmony.”

Throughout the event, which involved almost as many young people as the Olympic Games, the thousands of Scouts had the opportunity to take part in hundreds of activities focused on discovering new cultures, the environment, sustainable development and global issues. Jake an Explorer Scout from 1st Haslemere, said: “The opening ceremony was amazing.

“Seeing all the flags united together made me feel that scouting could change the world.

“It’s not every day you can walk from tent to tent and enter a different country to learn about their lives.”

Olivia, an Explorer Scout from 1st Camelsdale, said: “We made a real impact to the local and international community by getting involved in some great projects. But as well as this we made new friends, and took part in loads of exciting outdoor activities. I really enjoyed getting out on the water. Scouting rocks."

All over Surrey, the young people spent 18 months planning and training for the unique cultural exchange.

Each had to fundraise £3,000 in order to experience the jamboree, with part of this fee supporting Scouts attending from Bhutan, Botswana and other developing countries.

The Scouts were supported throughout their preparations by a dedicated team of adult volunteers.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: “While lots of people know that scouting is all about adventure, they often don’t realise that adult volunteers get to do just as much as our young members through their involvement.

“The World Scout Jamboree was a great example of this.

Nearly 4,000 Scouts from across the UK met with 26,000 others from around the world and took part in some amazing adventures. That is why I love Scouting so much!”

The jamboree was also a chance for adult volunteers to take part in activities, and learn new skills that they can use in other aspects of their lives.

Across the UK there are currently 36,000 young people waiting to join the fun, challenge and adventure of scouting, but there are not enough adult volunteers. Find out more at www. scouts.org.uk or call 0845 300 1818.