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The River Reader

Zipping Down the Zambezi

5:50 PM on Monday 29th July 2024
By: Caroline Dickinson
A wooden Hippo wearing a real neckerchief
Not just for Wolf Cubs, Squirrels and Brown Owls - Photo by Lucy Jarvis

Looking out over the beautiful vista from the Village Green, the Subcamps are arranged in front of you like a fan of bustling activity. Just around to one side are the lush green flags of Zambezi Subcamp. In the centre you will find a shady and cool(ish) retreat with the friendly subcamp staff waiting to welcome you.

A tent wall decorated with African animal scenes
Prime selfie opportunities in the Zambezi hub - Photo by Lucy Jarvis

Chloe and Heather, the Youth Team Members are usually on hand to listen, tell you a joke or direct you to the chill area at the back of the Subcamp hub. “Our main thing as part of our youth role is to just be here, so if any Participants want to come and chill out, or they’re feeling a bit emotional or something they can come here. That’s why we’ve got a wellbeing corner so if they just want to get away for a bit they can.”

Zambezi is a varied camp with participants from Malta, Canada and Ireland (with a few Glaswegians thrown in for good measure!) “The group from Malta are very enthusiastic, they have so much energy and are always singing and cheering. They are really great to have around!”

A gate to a Campsite, decorated with symbols of the  Zambezi
Wye not visit? - Photo by Lucy Jarvis

Life has been pretty calm on Zambezi so far but there have been reports of some odd happenings with the gas trucks, “We did the YMCA on the gas truck, we had quite a following. There were a few Cha Cha Slides too!” Be sure to wear your dancing shoes if you visit Zambezi when they are getting their gas delivery.

As with all the Subcamps, there is a challenge to complete if you go and visit. On Zambezi you have to chart a course through the Subcamp to collect 8 letters that are hidden with the animals hidden around. If you can find them all and unscramble them then you will find the name of a famous animated movie. An activity that is bound to show you a ROARING good time!