88 members of the holidays from all over the country gathered at Bilton Grange from 29th July to 5th August, with eleven boys and girls attending for the first time and two members joining a strong team of leaders.

The warm summer weather showed the grounds, gardens and buildings in their best light and we were well looked after, as ever, by the school catering staff.


A bewildering variety of activities were on offer including a cartoon-character- themed football and hockey tournament, children's story book making, ultimate frisbee, a murder mystery, volleyball, water polo, squash, croquet, tiddlywinks and even a gigantic game of hide and seek involving 61 people.

We enjoyed a very wet and welcome set of water games. Members also took part for the first time in a picnic and games at the local reservoir, Draycote Water, and in singing round a huge bonfire in the Bilton grounds.

There were a series of lively discussions and talks on a range of topical issues from smoking bans to prejudice. We held a collection for the Arthritis Research Council and Hearing Dogs for the Deaf and learnt more about their work.

The sale of our own merchandise and a parade of 200 pairs of colourful if unwanted socks provided funds and donations to the charity Hope for Children.

Everyone contributed to the entertainment each evening with singing, music, dancing and some memorable sketches. On the final evening the new members were celebrated with fireworks and the presentation of a certificate and a book.