American adventure for Wokingham teenager

Emmbrook pupil needs to raise £4,000 for Jamboree

A WOKINGHAM youngster is heading on a trip that is Scout of this world.

Harry McBain, 13, is going to America on a three week tour that will also include visits to Canada, Washington and New York.

The Emmbrook School pupil has won a place at the World Scout Jamboree in the USA next summer.

Harry is the first member from the 1st Wokingham troop to be selected for the event which only takes place every four years.

He was chosen after a tough trial weekend in Slough which included team building exercises, a cooking activity and problem solving tests.

Now the youngster is halfway to raising the £4,000 for the trip which includes helping a scout from a less developed country join him.

An excited Harry said: “I’m really looking forward to the Jamboree which is just an amazing event.

“It’s still sinking in that I am actually going. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I can’t wait.”

More than 200 Scouts and Explorers from across Berkshire competed for the 72 places available.

Each Scout now has to raise £4,000 to cover flights and camps fees as well as helping other Scouts from around the world to attend the Jamboree.

Harry and his family have already raised half that amount with a series of events including selling ice lollies during school breaks.

“Our break is only 20 minutes but I managed to sell 140 lollipops at a profit of 13p each,” added Harry.

“My mum and dad and big brother, Josh, have helped come up with ideas to raise funds.

“A lot of other people from 1st Wokingham and many other family and neighbours and friends are also helping me reach my target. I want to thank everyone who has helped and supported me. I feel really privileged to be going to the Jamboree.”

Scouting is a family affair for the McBains with Dad, Andy – a district executive – and Mum, Penny, an assistant.

“We were thrilled when Harry was selected,” added Mrs McBain.

“It’s such a great opportunity and although Harry will be one of the youngest going there, he is excited and looking forward to it. “We have held a number of fundraising events including a canoe race and a quiz night and we want to thank everyone who has come out in support.

“Harry also plans to walk the length of the Thames Path over several weekends and we will be joining him.”

The next big fundraising night is a jazz concert by the Millstones Band on Saturday, June 9 at Wokingham Methodist Church in Rose Street.

Tickets are available at Harry’s Facebook page where you can also keep up to date with his plans for the Jamboree trip.