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The usual competitions were entered into with zest, the annual
shell hunt aroused great interest, the sand modelling was excellent,
while the referee had to call a halt when four competitors passed
the 2000 in the thrilling pastime of the moment, "Yo Yo."
The Drama and Music were not forgotten, and crowds of
spectators thronged the auditorium (the sea wall) while the actors
and musicians performed on the sands, or the whole party raised
its voice in community singing. The staff, at their special evening
concert, presented themselves as a Pierrot troupe, and delighted
the audience with a variety entertainment, finishing with that now
hardy annual, "A Day in Camp." Only those whose privilege
it is to be present on these occasions, can know how eagerly this
evening is awaited; tradition seems to be handed on from one set
of campers to another; and I wonder to what heights future staffs
must rise if they are to satisfy the admiring expectations of the
children.
I am pleased to report that on one occasion only did we need
to use the Camp Hospital—for a case of rheumatism—and that
we had only one slight accident—a ricked knee, though several
cases of sunburn had to be treated.
So many are the facilities now available for a day excursion
to Dymchurch, that many parents, teachers and friends were able
to spend a day there, and it was most gratifying to hear from
parents how much they really appreciate what is being done for
their children.
I cannot conclude this report without thanking most sincerely
all who helped to make such a holiday possible; the Committee
for their vigilant care for our comfort; the Staff at the Education
Office, who attended so well to all the details of arrangements;
the Medical Staff, both here and at Dymchurch; and the Camp
Staff, who did much for our comfort. I realise each year that
however good in itself camp life is, so much more is added by
the capable attention, the sparkling gaiety, and the untiring efforts
of these excellent helpers.
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