THEY needed an extra large camp fire at Bowley Scout Camp when 1,200 Guides and Scouts from around the world got together.

Young people came from the four corners of the globe to take part in Bowleree 96, a six-day international scout camp, one of the largest events ever held at the Great Harwood camp.

A huge parade kicked off the event on Saturday evening with guides from all over East Lancashire joining those from Romania, Hungary, Sweden, Denmark, India, Pakistan, Ghana and Kenya.

And the newly-appointed Chief Scout, George Purdy, from Northern Ireland gave them all a warm welcome when he officially opened the camp.

Over 200 leaders have been drafted in to help run the camp which involves various exciting activities including helicopter rides donated by Dale Winfield from Winfield's of Haslingden, windsurfing, abseiling, an assortment of crafts and even producing a daily newspaper. Camp Chief Chris Creelman said: "It is wonderful and the atmosphere is great.

"The opening ceremony was great, a bit like the Olympics with all the different countries coming together.

"The theme of the camp is building bridges, and that is just what we are doing.

"It is brilliant to see young people getting together no matter what creed or nationality - it is just a bunch of kids having fun."

Over 200 leaders have been drafted in to help run the camp which includes several shops and cafes. Overseas visitors will have the chance to see more of East Lancashire on day trips around the area.

Chris added: "The logistics of running a camp this size are incredible. It is very tiring but well worth it."

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