Folk Fest: a place of “peace and harmony” with the same atmosphere of a village fete. There is a constant comfort of mellow music and the “coming together” of fifty-three Scout, Explorer, and Girlguide groups. Folk fest is home to groups from far and wide including; Scotland, America, and Wales, but of course there are several English groups too. 

 Want to make new friends? Not too sure how to? Well, your fellow Poacher participants have a few tips. This may seem obvious, but just going up to people and saying hi often works. Olly from 3rd Harpenden Scouts, Circus Fest, put it simply, “just go up and start a conversation”. He was kind enough to give a live demonstration and now has another acquaintance at Poacher. But what to say after that? Ask, where are you from? Which subcamp are you a member of? What has been your favourite activity so far? 

Ever find yourself with down time? The craft section is the place to be! It spans over a collection of marquees placed in a horseshoe formation near the clocktower. There are a total of thirty-three arts and crafts for you to choose from and there is something for everyone.

Wanting to make something lovely and easy? The foam flowers are pretty and simple to make. Lou, from Market Rasen Guides and Scouts, Wild West Fest, says “it is very popular for all age groups.” And if that doesn't prove how effortless it is to do, “even someone with a broken finger did it!” It should also be known that Leaders are welcome and can take inspiration back to their units. It is the place to be “if you want to chill and have some quiet for 10 minutes.”

Jenna from 15th Hillfoots Rangers, a 50/50 volunteer for the craft area, Wonder Fest, is very happy to be volunteering at the craft section. “It's more fun volunteering than I thought,” and is “great for people who don't want to do a big thing but want to do something.”

Angel and Reece of Angels n' Bandits performed four songs at the opening ceremony; two originals and two covers. The crowds lapped up the energy and style. Their original ‘Bruises’, was written for a bullying campaign in 2018. Positive messages were everywhere and the atmosphere was upbeat and accepting.

With so many activities on offer at Poacher 2022, you would think lunchtime would give you time to catch your breath. Not so! Lunchtime activities take place every day from 1pm to 1:30pm in the main arena.