I came to Keswick in 1979 at the age 15 to join in with The Girls Brigade England & Wales camp. I didnt know anyone else at the camp when I arrived.
One of the reasons I attended was to do part of my bronze D of E, I looked after children in the creche whilst the parents went to the Bible readings in the morning. We marched in wearing our uniform every morning from the canvas campsite, approx 30 mins walk.
We had afternoon activities with the other campers. In the evenings we were able to attend the youth tent services. We loved this, we were even invited to be in the youth choir. I’m not even sure if Derek Bingham was the leader but he encouraged us as GB girls to get involved in the youth meetings.
It was this Keswick camp that brings me lovely memories. I bought my Mum a George Beverly Shea LP from the stalls down the road by the tent, I met and made very good friends with a beautiful Geordie, Girls Brigade member. We wrote letters to each other regularly after this camp. 6 years later she was one of my bridesmaids. 44 years later we are still very good friends.
Last year I came back to Keswick as a volunteer, and served on Base Camp week 2. This was one of the best experiences in my life. I made some great friends, serving the Lord in this way, was such a great experience. The Lord really spoke to me during this week and encouraged me in my walk with Him. It was such a wonderful experience I have volunteered again for 2025.
