From the 22nd July to 2nd August 2019 approximately 40,000 Scouts and Explorers from around the world will gather at The Summit Bechtel Family National Family Scout Reserve in West Virginia, USA for the 24th WSJ - World Scout Jambouree.

I have made it through the selection process to earn a place on the UK IST - International Service Team. My exact role is yet to be finalised but the role of the IST is to join with other IST from all participating countries and provide the practical support necessary to make the Jambouree function. It will be a fortnight of incredibly hard work, at significant altitude, long hours in unrelenting heat, living out of a rucksack in a tent - all to provide the young people attending with the most incredible experience and adventure of their lives!

All of this is done on a voluntary basis, we do not get paid for our work, and we have to fund ourselves to go on this adventure too.

Which is where you lovely people come in. Over the course of the next year I will be carrying out numerous fundraising events and sponsored challenges; the first beginning on Tuesday 19th June 2018 when I will be undertaking a 15 mile walk from New Mills to Macclesfield; and would be ever so grateful if you could sponsor me, and donate to my once in a lifetime adventure.

For me this will be a huge personal achievement. Although I've been in Scouting for 10 years this July, this will be the biggest project I have ever been a part of. It will be the longest I have ever been away from my Hubby Michael & 5 year old daughter Amelia, without whose love, support and encouragement I wouldn't have even entertained the idea of applying for this. And to make it just a little bit harder - I HATE FLYING so the idea of the journey fills me terror lol!!!

But it is an opportunity far to incredible to miss! If you can find it in your hearts to sponsor me, even £1, I would be eternally grateful. Thank you so much for reading xxx