There was an international flavour to the JLGB summer camp with Russian, French, Dutch and Israeli youngsters boosting participation to in excess of 550.

This year’s theme was “emoji” and activities at the Essex venue were geared toward individuality. Sessions ranged from cookery to first-aid and from zip wire to kit-car racing.  

Nightly productions saw members and leaders take to the stage to express their creativity through song, dance and music. There was also a surprise performance from former X Factor contestant Luena Martinez. 

Experiencing her first JLGB camp, Zoe Rosenberg from Leeds said the atmosphere was welcoming “so I soon gained the confidence to speak to new people. Once I did, everyone was really nice. My favourite activity was ‘the ghost who was haunting camp’ evening entertainment.”

The camp director, Adam Shelley, said it had been “the biggest in over 20 years. It’s a privilege to see young people create and deliver social action projects, form strong international bonds and thrive in an environment of fun and adventure. I am also immensely proud of the team of JLGB volunteer leaders who ran all the groups and activities. We are extremely grateful for their hard work and dedication.”