Bedfordshire High Sheriff, Mr Nazir Jessa, paid a surprise late night visit to the Scouts and Guides giant sleepover in Luton’s Mall Arndale on Saturday hot foot from a previous engagement in Bedford. Over 200 young people and their leaders from all over Luton were there to greet him. Organised by District Commissioner Kam Patel, the overnight camp was a sponsored event to raise funds for NOAH the charity. They expect to easily beat last year’s record donation of over £2000 to provide Christmas gifts for the homeless.

The evening of fun and games continued to almost midnight for these eight to 18 year olds. For many this was way past their normal bedtime. Apart from quiz questions about the charity set by Managing Director Jim O’Connor, the Scouts and Guides took part in a poster design competition and helped to complete a giant 12 x 18 foot mural for the NOAH centre.

The High Sheriff joined in the fun including energetic camp fire songs. He was taught the actions by Explorer Scouts and Ranger Guides who showed him how to make the ears of a beaver in a new song about what is a Beaver Scout. Mr Jessa said, “This was a memorable experience. It is great to see so many young people coming together for a fun evening with a purpose.” Talking to the gathered circle of wide-eyed youngsters, he said, “I was a Cub Scout just like you but in a country far away. And just like you we had some exceptional leaders who gave their time to look after us and train us to be better people. Let’s show how much we appreciate what they do for us.” The tired but happy crowd responded with an ear splitting yell in true Scout and Guide fashion.

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