A YOUTH organisation that runs groups in Ashley Down and St Andrews is appealing for help after its camping equipment was stolen in a burglary.
The raiders took £5,000 of gear from the headquarters of Woodcraft Folk’s Bristol District.
Their haul included tents, solar lighting, a shelter and toilet tent. Garden tools, which are used for bushcraft activities and maintaining the space around the equipment store, were also taken.
The organisation, which runs six groups in Bristol, is aiming to raise £3,000 to supplement insurance to replace the items.
Bristol District Group Leader Jenny Thompson said: “I’ve been a member of Woodcraft Folk for many years, as a child and now as a group Leader. In that time I have been to hundreds of camps, made lifelong friends and so many memories. There’s lots of hard work needed to organise a camp, we’re all volunteers fitting this in around our other commitments. It’s all worth it when you get there and see the children enjoying themselves, making friends and learning new skills.
“It was heartbreaking to hear of the break-in and theft of so much of the equipment that is vital for us to run these events. “
Bristol Woodcraft Folk enables children and young people to learn about big ideas and issues such as the environment and global conflict through fun activities such as craft, games, playing and debating. Participants discover new skills and explore exciting experiences, building confidence along the way, and organisers camping trips are a highlight of the year for many.
To support the fundraiser, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/bristol-woodcraft-folk-camp-again. Find out more about Woodcraft Folk at https://woodcraft.org.uk/