I first came to Woodlarks at Easter 1970 to join the Group Working Party, along with Arthur Osborn ant Terry Bonner. It was, and still is, a great mix of doing useful jobs and socialising.

In July 1970 I came to my first camp, Pioneer Two. My school headmaster refused permission for me to leave school early, I tried to get expelled but failed so Woodlarks only got a couple of days.

In the intervening half century, I have carried on joining Pioneer Two and, latterly, Adventurers.

Outside of camping I have been a regular attendee at working parties and, from 2009 until 2023, I was a trustee.

Both at working parties and as a trustee I have used my engineering background to fix problems and advise the charity.

As a trustee I looked after the site, working with many others to keep our equipment, buildings and site in good order. We instituted "Engineering Week" where a small group of us ensure that everything is working ready for the start of the camping season. It's surprising how much equipment there is to test, repair and certify.

Additionally, I also took over the website and managing our policies.

Since stepping down from trusteeship in 2023, I have continued giving advice and attending camps and working parties, albeit in a reduced capacity.